Yes, electromagnetic waves can be affected by electric and magnetic fields in certain circumstances. The interaction between electromagnetic waves and electric and magnetic fields is governed by Maxwell's equations, which describe the fundamental behavior of electromagnetic fields.

In general, electromagnetic waves are not affected by static electric and magnetic fields. This is because static fields do not produce any time-varying fields, which are necessary to interact with electromagnetic waves. However, electromagnetic waves can be affected by time-varying electric and magnetic fields. These time-varying fields can cause the waves to be refracted, diffracted, or polarized.

The reason why electric and magnetic fields are perpendicular in electromagnetic waves is because they are generated by each other. A changing electric field generates a magnetic field, and a changing magnetic field generates an electric field. This process is continuous, and it results in the propagation of an electromagnetic wave through space. The electric and magnetic fields of the wave are always perpendicular to each other and to the direction of propagation of the wave.

Here are some specific examples of how electromagnetic waves can be affected by electric and magnetic fields:

• Refraction: Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another. This occurs when the speed of light is different in the two media. Electromagnetic waves can be refracted by electric and magnetic fields if the fields are inhomogeneous, meaning that they vary in strength from one point to another.
• Diffraction: Diffraction is the spreading of light when it encounters an obstacle. This occurs because light waves can bend around corners. Electromagnetic waves can be diffracted by electric and magnetic fields if the fields are inhomogeneous.
• Polarization: Polarization is the property of light in which the electric field oscillates in a particular direction. Electromagnetic waves can be polarized by electric and magnetic fields if the fields are not uniform, meaning that they have the same strength in all directions.

In addition to these effects, electromagnetic waves can also be affected by the presence of matter. For example, electromagnetic waves can be absorbed, scattered, or reflected by matter. The specific effects of matter on electromagnetic waves depend on the properties of the matter, such as its density, conductivity, and permeability.

Dr Murtadha Shukur thank you for your contribution to the discussion