Figure 3-3Electromagnetic Radiation All forms of electromagnetic radiation (radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays) consist of combined electric and magnetic fields oscillating perpendicular to each other and to the direction in which they move. In empty space this radiation travels at a speed of 3 × 105 km/s. These fields are the mathematical description of the electric and magnetic effects. The distance between two successive crests, denoted by λ, is called the wavelength of the light.