ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Electromagnetic shielding

Alright kiddo, do you remember how we use an umbrella to protect ourselves from the rain? Just like that, electromagnetic shielding is used to protect things from unwanted electromagnetic waves.

Now, electromagnetic waves are all around us. Wi-Fi signals, cell phone signals, TV transmissions, and even the microwave oven in our kitchen produces these waves. But sometimes, we want to stop these waves from going somewhere they're not supposed to go.

For example, when we put our mobile phone in our pocket, we don't want it to make contact with our body. This is because the waves emitted by the phone can affect our health. So, we use a special material called an electromagnetic shield to block or absorb these waves.

These shields work like special blankets that wrap around the device. They are made of conductive materials that can absorb and reflect the waves away from the device. Think of it like wearing a raincoat. The raincoat doesn't prevent the rain from falling, but it does prevent us from getting wet. Similarly, the electromagnetic shield doesn't stop the waves, but it does prevent their harmful effects on the device.

Now, these shields are not only used to protect people from electromagnetic waves, but also for electrical equipment like computers and sensitive electronic devices. These devices should not be exposed to electromagnetic waves, as they can cause unwanted signals or interfere with the normal functioning of the device altogether.

In summary, electromagnetic shielding is like an umbrella or raincoat, but for protecting devices and people from electromagnetic waves. It is made of special materials that can absorb or reflect these waves, thereby protecting the devices from their harmful effects.