- The electromagnetic force is the fundamental force that underlies electromagnetism. It is one of the four fundamental forces in nature. The other forces are the strong nuclear force, the weak nuclear forces and gravity.
- The electromagnetic force is evident in the interaction between electrically charged particles, such as electrons, photons and other sub-atomic particles. Oppositely charged particles exert an attractive force, while particles with the same charge exert a repulsive force.
- The electromagnetic force is carried by photons and creates electric and magnetic fields which are responsible for electromagnetic waves and chemical bonding.
- The electromagnetic force binds electrons to atoms by attracting the negative electrons to the positive nucleus. This is what keeps atoms together and prevents them from flying apart.
- The electromagnetic force maintains molecular cohesion by attracting the positive and negative ends of molecules to each other. This is what makes solids and liquids hold their shape.
- The electromagnetic force governs the emission of light (photons or electromagnetic waves):
- When electrons in an atom or molecule are excited, they can emit photons, which are particles of light.
- Photons can also be absorbed by atoms or molecules, which can cause their electrons to change their energy levels.
- Photons carry electromagnetic force through electric and magnetic fields, propagating at the speed of light.