10 EM WAVES : 4Q

Electromagnetic Waves

Waves that consist of electric and magnetic fields oscillating perpendicular to each other and to the direction of wave propagation.

Radio Waves

The longest wavelengths and lowest frequencies in the electromagnetic spectrum, essential for modern communication.

Microwaves

Waves with shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies than radio waves, used for cooking and communication.

Infrared Radiation

Waves that have longer wavelengths than visible light and are perceived as heat.

Visible Light

The portion of the electromagnetic spectrum detectable by the human eye, encompassing all colors of light.

Ultraviolet Radiation

Radiation with shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies than visible light, known for its role in skin damage.

X-Rays

High-energy radiation used in medical imaging that can ionize atoms and cause biological damage.

Gamma Rays

The highest energy radiation with very short wavelengths, produced by nuclear reactions and used in cancer treatment.

Frequency (f)

The number of complete wave cycles passing a point per unit of time, measured in hertz (Hz).

Wavelength (λ)

The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs in a wave, measured in meters.

Amplitude

The maximum displacement of a point from its equilibrium position in a wave, indicating energy carried.

Crest

The highest point of a wave above its equilibrium position.

Trough

The lowest point of a wave below its equilibrium position.

Node

A point where the wave has zero amplitude.

Electromagnetic Spectrum

The entire range of electromagnetic radiation, categorized by wavelength or frequency.

Propagation Direction

The path along which an electromagnetic wave travels.

Electromagnetic Induction

The process where a changing magnetic field induces an electric current in a conductor.

Transverse Waves

Waves in which the oscillations of electric and magnetic fields are perpendicular to the direction of propagation.

Non-Ionizing Radiation

Radiation that does not have enough energy to remove electrons from atoms or molecules.

Ionizing Radiation

Radiation with enough energy to remove electrons from atoms, potentially causing cellular damage.