Earth Science EM and Hubble

Spectroscopy

The study of how light interacts with matter.

Electromagnetic Spectrum

The range of all types of electromagnetic radiation.

Visible Light

The part of the electromagnetic spectrum detectable by human eyes.

Redshift

The lengthening of wavelengths as an object moves away from the observer.

Blueshift

The shortening of wavelengths as an object moves toward the observer.

Doppler Effect

The change in frequency or wavelength of a wave in relation to a moving observer.

Hubble's Constant

A measure of the rate of expansion of the universe.

LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory)

An observatory that detects gravitational waves from massive events in space.

Redshift and Expanding Universe

Redshift occurs when a star or galaxy moves away, causing light waves to stretch.

Hubble's Law

States that galaxies are moving away from us, with farther galaxies moving faster.

Spectral Lines and Element Identification

Elements absorb and emit specific wavelengths of light, creating unique spectral lines.

Gravitational Waves

Ripples in spacetime caused by massive events, such as black hole collisions.

Radio Waves

The longest wavelength and lowest energy in the spectrum.

Microwaves

Slightly shorter wavelength than radio waves, with low energy.

Infrared (IR) Radiation

Has wavelengths longer than visible light and is associated with heat.

Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation

Shorter wavelengths than visible light, with higher energy.

X-rays

Very short wavelengths with high energy, beyond UV light.

Gamma Rays

The shortest wavelength and highest energy in the spectrum.