1. Reflection: When radio waves hit a metal surface, they can be reflected back in the opposite direction. This phenomenon is similar to how light reflects off a mirror. The higher the frequency of the radio waves, the more likely they are to be reflected.
2. Absorption: Some radio waves can be absorbed by metal objects. When this happens, the energy carried by the radio waves is converted into heat energy, causing the metal to warm up. The amount of absorption depends on the conductivity and thickness of the metal.
3. Penetration: Radio waves of lower frequencies, such as AM radio waves, can penetrate metal objects to some extent. However, the higher the frequency of the radio waves, the less they are able to penetrate metal. For example, FM radio waves and microwaves are mostly reflected or absorbed by metal surfaces.
4. Diffraction: Radio waves can also undergo diffraction when they encounter metal edges or obstacles. This means that the waves can bend around corners and spread out as they pass through the metal.
In general, radio waves are not completely stopped or "killed" by contact with metal. They interact with metal through reflection, absorption, penetration, and diffraction, which can affect their propagation and reception. The specific behavior of radio waves in the presence of metal depends on the frequency of the waves, the type of metal, and the shape and size of the metal object.