Electromagnetic Waves Overview

These flashcards cover key electromagnetic waves, their discoverers, ranges, and general uses in astronomy.

Gamma Rays

Electromagnetic waves discovered by Paul Villard, with a wavelength shorter than 410 picometers.

X-Rays

High-energy electromagnetic radiation discovered by Wilhelm Röntgen, with a wavelength range of 1 nanometer to 1 picometer.

Ultraviolet Light

Electromagnetic radiation discovered by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, wavelength range from 400 nanometers to 750 nanometers.

Visible Light

Electromagnetic wave spectrum range from 400 nm to 750 nm, perceived as color.

Infrared Waves

Electromagnetic waves discovered by William Herschel, with wavelengths ranging from 750 nm to 1 mm.

Microwaves

Waves discovered by Percy Spencer, ranging from 1 mm to 25 cm, used for heating food.

Radio Waves

Longer electromagnetic waves, discovered by Heinrich Hertz, typically ranging from 1 mm to 100 km.