Answer:
Smartphones use electromagnetic waves to transmit energy and information wirelessly. Specifically, they use radio waves, which are a type of electromagnetic wave that has a long wavelength and low frequency. These waves can travel long distances and can penetrate certain materials like walls and buildings.
Here's a breakdown of how a cell phone sends and receives transmissions:
- A cell phone converts sound and data into radio waves using a radio transmitter.
- The radio waves are then sent out from the cell phone's antenna and travel through the air.
- The radio waves are picked up by the nearest cell tower, which has its own antenna.
- The cell tower then relays the radio waves to a central switching station, which connects the call to the appropriate network (either another cell phone or a landline).
- The process is reversed when receiving a call or data. The radio waves are picked up by the cell tower and relayed back to the cell phone.
When it comes to interacting with matter, radio waves can be blocked or weakened by certain materials, such as:
- Buildings and other large objects can block radio waves, which is why some areas may have poor cell phone reception.
- Metal can reflect radio waves, which is why some buildings may have special coatings or materials to prevent interference.
- Electromagnetic interference from other devices can also disrupt radio waves.
Overall, while smart phones use waves to transfer energy and information wirelessly, there are limitations to their reach and reliability.