RAD350 MODULE 1 STUDY GUIDE: Electromagnetic energy

Electromagnetic spectrum

ordering or grouping the different electromagnetic radiations

Lowest to highest energy of electromagnetic spectrum

radiowaves, microwaves, infrared light, visible light, UV light, x-rays, gamma rays, cosmic rays

wave particle duality

electromagnetic radiation exhibits properties of a wave or a particle depending on its energy and environment.

wave equation

λ=c/f

gamma rays

originate in the nuclei of atoms and represent the excess energy the atom is giving off to reach a stable state

used in nuclear medical imaging, radiation therapy

IONIZE DOES MATTER

x-rays

originate through interactions between electrons and atoms. produced when fast moving electrons within the x-ray tube strike the atoms of the metal in its target.

used in medical imaging and radiation therapy

IONIZE DOES MATTER

radiowaves

low end of the energy spectrum used in broadcasting of music and MRI

IONIZE DOES NOT MATTER

microwaves

transmit cell phones signals and heat food

IONIZE DOES NOT MATTER

infrared light

communication between electronic devices

IONIZE DOES NOT MATTER

Visible light

part of the spectrum the human eye receives as colors

IONIZE DOES NOT MATTER

UV Light

Tanning beds

IONIZE DOES NOT MATTER

Potential energy

ability to do work

kinetic energy

energy of motion

chemical energy

released by a chemical reaction

electrical energy

work can be done when an electron moves through an electric potential difference (voltage)

thermal

motion at the molecular level (temperature)

nuclear

energy that is contained within the nucleus of an atom

electromagnetic energy

form of energy that is the result of electric and magnetic disturbances in space

ionizing radiation

enough energy to dislodge electrons from atoms, forming ions; capable of causing cancer (gamma, X-rays, UV)