When we represent electromagnetic waves using diagrams or images, we often simplify the depiction by showing the electric and magnetic fields as separate components oscillating perpendicular to each other and to the direction of wave propagation. This representation helps us visualize the relationship between the electric and magnetic fields.
In reality, electromagnetic waves are three-dimensional phenomena that propagate through space. The electric and magnetic fields are intertwined and mutually perpendicular to both each other and the direction of wave propagation. However, this three-dimensional nature is challenging to represent visually.
To understand the three-dimensional nature of electromagnetic waves, we can use a right-handed coordinate system. The direction of wave propagation is represented by the z-axis, while the electric field is represented by one of the orthogonal axes (e.g., the x-axis), and the magnetic field is represented by the remaining orthogonal axis (e.g., the y-axis). The electric and magnetic fields are in phase with each other, and as the wave propagates, both fields oscillate in strength and direction.
In summary, while simplified two-dimensional diagrams show electric and magnetic fields as separate components, in reality, electromagnetic waves are three-dimensional with intertwined electric and magnetic fields that are mutually perpendicular to each other and the direction of wave propagation.