Electromagnetic Spectrum

Electromagnetic Spectrum

1. LONGEST-SHORTEST by wavelength

   • Gamma Rays
     • Most dangerous. Used for detecting and destroying tumours.
   • X-Rays
     • Ability to pass through human body.
   • Ultraviolet
     • Can cause skin cancer, used printing bank notes.
   • Visible Light
     • Detected by our eyes.
   • Infrared
     • Any object hotter than surroundings will emit infrared. Treat muscle injuries.
   • Microwaves
     • Used in mobile phones, used to heat food. Can be dangerous in excessive amounts
   • Television waves
     • Longest wavelength. Detected then decoded by receivers.
   • Radio waves

2. HIGHEST-LOWEST by frequency = RTMIVUXG

3. All members of EM spectrum are transverse waves.

4. All members of EM spectrum can go through a vacuum and travel at 3.0 x10(8) ms(-1)

5. The energy of a photon of electromagnetic radiation is dependent upon the frequency of the radiation

   • Higher the frequency = the greater energy in the photon.