Light snd Electromagnetic Spectrum

what is the electromagnetic spectrum?

a continuous range of all electromagnetic radiation by wavelength, frequency and energy. visible with light forming only a small fraction

properties of electromagnetic waves

transverse, speed in vacuum and inverse relationships

transverse waves

all electromagnetic waves oscillate perpendicular to the direction of the wave

speed in a vacuum

waves travel at the speed of light in a vacuum

inverse relationships

wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional; shorter wavelengths means higher frequencies and higher photon energies

The Longest wavelength with lowest energy to the shortest wavelength with highest energy

radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, x rays, gamma rays

radio waves

lowest frequency and longest wavelength . used for broadcasting and communications

microwaves

short radio waves used for satellite communications and heating food

infrared

thermal radiation experienced as heat ; used in remote controls and night vision

visible light

the narrow band of wavelengths detectable by the human eyes spanning from red to violet (highest)

ultraviolet

higher radiation from the sun that can cause tanning/burns but it’s useful for disinfection and security inks

x-rays

high energy waves that can penetrate soft tissue making them valuable for medical imaging and security

gamma rays

highest frequency , shortest wavelengths, and most energetic waves emitted by radioactive decay and used in cancer treatments