Lecture Ch 2.1 Electrons and Orbitals

CHEM 122

Electromagnetic Radiation

A form of energy that travels through space at the speed of light and exhibits wave-like behavior.

Wavelength (λ)

The distance from one peak of a wave to the next peak, expressed in meters.

Frequency (ν)

The number of wavefronts that pass a given point in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Amplitude

The height of the wave peaks, which relates to the intensity of the wave.

Electromagnetic Spectrum

The range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, from gamma rays to long radio waves.

Constructive Interference

Occurs when wave crests and troughs reinforce each other, resulting in an increased amplitude.

Destructive Interference

Occurs when wave crests and troughs cancel each other out, resulting in a decreased amplitude.

Light as a Wave

The concept that light behaves primarily as a wave, characterized by properties such as wavelength and frequency.

Diffraction

The bending of waves around obstacles or openings, often resulting in interference patterns.

C = λ × ν

The formula that relates the speed of light (c) to its wavelength (λ) and frequency (ν).