Electromagnetic Spectrum and Radiation Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts, uses, and health effects of electromagnetic radiation based on the lecture transcript.

Radio Wave Induced Oscillations

Oscillations produced in a circuit when radio waves are absorbed, having the same frequency as the waves themselves.

Health Effects of Ultraviolet Waves

Premature skin aging and an increased risk of developing skin cancer.

Health Effects of X-rays and Gamma Rays

Gene mutations and an increased risk of developing various cancers because they are ionising radiation.

Electromagnetic Radiation Effect on Electron Arrangement

Absorption or emission of electromagnetic radiation that changes electron arrangement by moving electrons further from the nucleus or removing them from the atom.

Effects of Body Cells Absorbing Radiation

Cell damage from large amounts of radiation, or cell mutation causing rapid cell division and cancer from smaller amounts.

Communication Use of Radio Waves

Long-distance communication, possible because radio waves have long wavelengths and can travel long distances without losing quality.

Uses of Infrared Radiation

Cooking food by transferring thermal energy, infrared cameras, and short range communication.

Uses of Illuminating Waves and Fibre Optics

Illuminating (seeing) and fibre optics, because these waves reflect best in glass where other waves have wavelengths that are too long or short.

Uses of UV Radiation

Sterilisation by killing bacteria, energy efficient lamps radiating low heat but high energy, and sun tanning.

Uses of X-rays

Medical imaging and treatment, enabled by their very high energy which allows them to easily penetrate body tissues.

Uses of Gamma Rays

Medical treatments, such as radiotherapy in the treatment of cancer.

Most Dangerous Electromagnetic Waves

Gamma rays and X-rays, because they possess the highest energy in the electromagnetic spectrum.