An electromagnetic field (which includes both electric and magnetic fields) is the region around an object where it can exert a force on another object without direct contact. Electric fields arise from charged objects, while magnetic fields are produced by moving charges, such as electric currents.
- Fields are fundamental in physics, playing key roles in areas like electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and general relativity.
- Fields can be represented by lines showing the direction of the force experienced by objects within the field.
- Fields are created by a source object and influence other objects within their range.
- Electromagnetic fields combine electric and magnetic components, interconnected through electromagnetic waves.
- Electric fields are associated with positive or negative charges and exert forces on charged objects.
- Magnetic fields are generated by moving electric charges, such as currents in wires, and can affect magnetic materials and charged particles.
- Electric fields and magnetic fields together make up the electromagnetic field, which governs interactions between charged particles.
- According to quantum field theory, all particles and forces in the universe arise from interactions between underlying fields, which give rise to the properties of matter and energy.
Related diagrams
Each diagram below can be viewed on its own page with a full explanation.
