The Electromagnetic Spectrum

The Electromagnetic Spectrum

1. Gamma Rays

   • Shortest Wavelength
   • Advantages
     • Can sterilize medical equiptment
   • Disadvantages
     • Can cause cell mutation
   • Uses
     • Kills Cancer Cells

2. X-Rays

   • Advantages
     • Allows us to see internal structure of object
     • Can be used to see bone fractures
   • Disadvantages
     • Can cause mutation

3. Ultraviolet

   • Advantages
     • Can be used to kill bacteria
     • Sun beds and security pens
   • Disadvantages
     • Can cause skin cancer

4. Visble Light

   • Disadvantages
     • Not visible in the dark
   • Advantages
     • Allows humans and animals to see

5. Infrared

   • Advantages
     • Used in TV remotes
     • Not harmful
   • Disadvantages
     • Short Range

6. Microwaves

   • Disadvantages
     • Refracted by atmosphere
   • Advantages
     • Can carry lots of information
   • Transmit mobile phone signals

7. Radiowaves

   • Advantages
     • Can travel for long distance
   • Disadvantages
     • Cannot carry a lot of data
   • Longest Wavelength
     • Radio transmissions and long distance phone calls

8. All transverse waves

   • Travels at right angles to wave energy