In what direction does an electromagnetic wave travel?

An electromagnetic wave, such as a radio frequency signal, consists of two oscillating components: an electric field and a magnetic field. These two fields constantly generate each other as they propagate through space. According to the fundamental principles of electromagnetism (Maxwell's equations), the direction of the wave's travel is always mutually perpendicular to both of these fields. This is often visualized using a 3D coordinate system where the electric field oscillates on the Y-axis, the magnetic field on the Z-axis, and the wave travels along the X-axis. Therefore, the wave does not travel parallel to the fields, nor is its direction determined by phase angles. It consistently propagates at a right angle (90 degrees) to the plane formed by the electric and magnetic fields.