The electro magnetic spectrum Flashcards
What are the 7 waves that make up the electro magnetic spectrum?
Radio waves, Microwaves, Infra-red, Visible light, Ultraviolet, X-rays and Gamma rays.
What is a hazard of microwaves?
Microwaves can heat internal body tissues.
What is a hazard of infrared?
It can cause skin burns because it is felt as heat.
What is a hazard of X-rays and Gamma rays?
They can damage and kill cells leading to mutations, which may lead to cancer.
What can radio waves be used for?
Broadcasting communications and satellite transmissions.
What are some uses of microwaves?
Cooking communications and satellite transmissions.
What are some uses of infra-red?
cooking, thermal imaging
short range communications, optical fibres, television remote controls, security systems.
What are some uses of visible light?
vision, photography
illumination.
What are some uses of ultraviolet?
security marking, fluorescent lamps
detecting forged bank notes
disinfecting water
Radiation can be harmful, but what can it be useful for?
Radiation can detect smoke, gauge the thickness of paper, treat cancer and sterilise medical equipment.
