An electromagnetic wave is a mechanical wave.

true OR false

Answer is false.

An electromagnetic wave is a non-mechanical wave which does not require a medium for its transmission. This travels even through vacuum. Examples of electromagnetic waves are radio wave, X ray, infra red rays, gamma rays etc.

A mechanical wave requires a medium for transmission. There are three types of mechanical waves namely transverse waves, longitudinal waves and surface waves. Some of the examples of mechanical waves are sound waves, water waves and seismic waves.

Electromagnetic waves include radio, microwave, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, x-rays, and gamma rays.

Radio is important in communication, such as between hospitals and ambulances.

Microwaves have few medical applications, but can be used in communication and food preparation.

Infrared detectors let doctors measure temperature and metabolic activity quickly.

Human doctors use visible light to visually inspect conditions.

Ultraviolet light can be used to treat some skin conditions and as a sanitizing agent.

X-rays are an important diagnostic tool for observing internal body structures.

Gamma rays are sometimes used to kill cancer cells with precision.