Why does the low frequency radiation or wave can not travel

In summary, low frequency radiation or waves cannot travel for longer distances due to absorption by materials and the amount of energy they carry. This is not a general rule and depends on the medium and frequency range. However, in a vacuum, frequency does not affect the distance a wave can travel. Low frequency microwaves have been found to work well in the oceans and can reach submarines at any location.
  • #1
amaresh92
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greetings,
why does the low frequency radiation or wave can not travel for longer distance?
advanced thanks.
 
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  • #2


amaresh92 said:
greetings,
why does the low frequency radiation or wave can not travel for longer distance?
advanced thanks.
In a vacuum, the frequency makes no difference. Through materials it is more complicated.
 
  • #3


mathman said:
In a vacuum, the frequency makes no difference. Through materials it is more complicated.
but why is it so?
 
  • #4


amaresh92 said:
greetings,
why does the low frequency radiation or wave can not travel for longer distance?
advanced thanks.
This is not true in general. What exactly do you have in mind (regarding this question)?
It depends on the medium and frequency range.
Just one example: ultraviolet has higher frequency than red light an it travels less through ordinary glass.
 
  • #5


The energy, or power, of radiation is a major determinent of the useful range of radiation...like a radio or TV station...higher power stations can transmit and be detected at greater distances...

Once emitted, radiation in a vacuum travels forever,,.,but may be too weak to detect...in materials atoms absorb radiation energy so a wave loses power more quickly...

The behavior of EM radiation depends on its wavelength. When EM radiation interacts with single atoms and molecules, its behavior also depends on the amount of energy per quantum (photon) it carries.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electromagnetic_spectrum


It turns out low freqency microwaves work well in the oceans:

Electromagnetic waves in the ELF frequency range (3–30 Hz) (see also SLF) can travel through the oceans and reach submarines anywhere.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Communication_with_submarines
 

FAQ: Why does the low frequency radiation or wave can not travel

Why can't low frequency radiation or waves travel as far as high frequency radiation or waves?

The main reason that low frequency radiation or waves cannot travel as far as high frequency radiation or waves is due to their longer wavelength. Low frequency radiation or waves have longer wavelengths, which means that they have a lower energy and are more easily absorbed or scattered by objects in their path. This absorption and scattering reduces the distance that the radiation or waves can travel.

How does the atmosphere affect the travel of low frequency radiation or waves?

The atmosphere plays a significant role in the travel of low frequency radiation or waves. The Earth's atmosphere is made up of different layers, and each layer has varying properties that can affect the propagation of radiation or waves. For example, the ionosphere in the upper atmosphere can reflect and refract low frequency waves, causing them to bounce around and not travel in a straight line.

Can low frequency radiation or waves travel through objects?

Low frequency radiation or waves can travel through some objects, but they are more easily absorbed or scattered by solid materials. For example, radio waves with low frequencies can travel through walls and buildings, but they may lose some of their strength and clarity in the process. This is why higher frequency waves, like X-rays, are used for medical imaging as they can travel through the body more easily.

How does the power of a radiation or wave affect its travel distance?

The power, or energy, of a radiation or wave can also affect its travel distance. Low frequency waves have lower energies, meaning they have less power to travel long distances. This is why higher frequency waves, like gamma rays, can travel much farther than low frequency waves before losing their energy.

Can low frequency radiation or waves be used for long distance communication?

Low frequency radiation or waves are often used for long distance communication, such as radio and television broadcasting. While they may not travel as far as high frequency waves, they can still cover long distances and are less affected by obstacles like buildings and mountains. However, they may not be as effective for communication in areas with dense populations or in urban environments with high levels of interference.

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