Electromagnetic Spectrum Flashcards
wavelength
λ, m
frequency
f, Hz
Electromagnetic waves formula
c=fλ
c
(3×10^8 m/s)
Longest wavelength, lowest frequency, and lowest energy to shortest wavelength, highest frequency, and most energy
Radio, Microwave, Infrared, Visible, Ultraviolet, X-ray, Gamma ray
● Longest wavelength, lowest frequency, and lowest energy
● Used in communication (TV, AM/FM radio, WiFi, Bluetooth)
Radio Waves
Used in microwave ovens (vibrates water molecules to generate heat)
Used in radar and satellite communication
Microwaves
Heat radiation – emitted by warm objects (e.g., humans, the sun)
Used in thermal cameras, remote controls, and night vision
Infrared (IR) Radiation
The only part of the spectrum that human eyes can see
ROYGBIV
Range: Red (longest wavelength) to Violet (shortest wavelength)
Visible Light
Light bounces off surfaces (mirrors).
Reflection
Light bends when passing through materials (lenses).
Refraction
Light splits into colors (prisms, rainbows).
Dispersion
Objects absorb some wavelengths and reflect others (giving them color).
Absorption
Light passes through a material without being absorbed.(glass, window).
Transmission
Higher frequency than visible light, can cause sunburn
Divided into UVA, UVB, and UVC (UVC is the most dangerous but absorbed by the ozone layer)
Used in fluorescent lights, and detecting counterfeit money
Ultraviolet (UV) Light
High energy, can penetrate most materials except lead
Used in medical imaging (X-ray scans), airport security
Can cause DNA damage with prolonged exposure
X-rays
shortest wavelength, highest frequency, and most energy
Produced by radioactive decay, nuclear explosions
Used in cancer treatment (radiotherapy), nuclear research
Extremely dangerous due to its ionizing radiation
Gamma Rays
Energy formula
E=hf
h
Planck’s constant (6.626x10^−34)
Energy
E, J
Combined energy formula
e=h(c/λ)
