The electromagnetic spectrum consists of different types of electromagnetic radiation, classified by their wavelengths, frequencies, and energies. Each type has unique properties and applications. Here are the main types and how they differ:
- Radio Waves
- Longest wavelengths, lowest frequencies and energy
- Used in communication like radio, TV, and mobile phones
- Can travel long distances and penetrate the atmosphere easily
- Microwaves
- Shorter wavelength than radio waves
- Used in microwave ovens, radar, and satellite communication
- Can heat water molecules and carry high-frequency data signals
- Infrared (IR)
- Wavelengths just longer than visible light
- Emitted by warm objects; used in remote controls and thermal imaging
- Detected as heat radiation
- Visible Light
- The only part visible to the human eye
- Wavelengths range from about 400 nm (violet) to 700 nm (red)
- Enables vision and photography
- Ultraviolet (UV)
- Shorter wavelength and higher energy than visible light
- Can cause sunburn; used in sterilization and fluorescent lighting
- X-Rays
- Even shorter wavelength and higher energy
- Can penetrate soft tissues; used in medical imaging and security scanning
- Gamma Rays
- Shortest wavelengths, highest frequency and energy
- Produced by nuclear reactions and cosmic events
- Used in cancer treatment and sterilization