Radar technology relies on electromagnetic waves, which are the same type of waves used for light, radio, and microwaves. These waves are transmitted by the radar system and propagate through the air. When these waves encounter an object, they reflect back to the receiver. The radar system then analyzes these waves to calculate the distance and position of the object. The frequency of the electromagnetic waves used can affect radar performance, with higher frequencies providing more detailed images but at shorter ranges, while lower frequencies are better for long-range detection.