Does energy dissipate from electromagnetic waves?

Answer 1

Electromagnetic waves do produce heat. It depends a bit on the frequency and of course the strength of them as to how much heat that is produced. It also depends on what medium the waves travel through.

Example:

A microwave oven heats up the food by interacting with water molecules, making them vibrate. This vibration causes friction and friction turns into heat. This is done via electromagnetic waves.

These waves are not absorbed by glass or pottery, hence they stay cold.

Answer 2

Yes, energy can dissipate from electromagnetic waves as they travel through a medium or encounter obstacles, leading to weakening or attenuation of the wave. This energy dissipation can manifest as heat generation or conversion to other forms of energy.

Answer 3

Yes.