properties of electromagnetic waves 2

what happens when radio waves are absorbed?

they may create an alternating current with the same frequency as the radio wave itself, so radio waves can themselves induce oscillations in an electrical circuit.

why can em waves be absorbed or generated over a wide frequency range?

due to changes in atoms and the nuclei of the atom.

what do gamma rays originate from?

from changes in the nucleus of an atom.

what can ultraviolet waves cause?

• skin to age prematurely

• increase risk of cancer

what can x-rays and gamma rays cause?

they are ionising radiation that can cause mutation of genes and cancer.

how can ultraviolet waves, gamma rays and x-rays have hazardous effects on human body tissue?

the effects depend on the type of radiation and the size of the dose.

what is radiation dose?

a measure of the risk of harm resulting from an exposure of the body to the radiation.

what is radiation dose measured in?

sieverts (Sv).

what is 1000 millisieverts equivalent to?

1 sievert (Sv).