Electromagnetic Spectrum Lecture Notes

Introduction to Electromagnetic Waves

• Activities using electromagnetic spectrum waves.
• Composed of electromagnetic (EM) waves.
• Created from vibrations between electric and magnetic fields.
• Composed of oscillating magnetic and electric fields.

Characteristics of Electromagnetic Waves

• Electric field and magnetic field are perpendicular to each other.
• Fields are also perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
• Ordered by frequency (measured in hertz).
  • Range: 300 kilohertz to 3 x 10^21 hertz.
• Can travel through air, solid materials, and vacuum.
• Do not require a medium for propagation.

Components of the Electromagnetic Spectrum

• Radio Waves:
  • Low frequency.
  • Wavelength size of a soccer field.
• Microwaves:
  • Wavelength size of a baseball.
• Visible Light:
  • Wavelength size of bacteria.
  • Subdivided by color:
    • Red (lowest frequency)
    • Blue (highest frequency)
• X-rays:
  • Wavelength slightly larger than a water molecule.
• Gamma Rays:
  • Size of atoms.

Applications of the Electromagnetic Spectrum

• Everyday uses include:
  • Listening to music.
  • Utilizing visible light.
  • Sound.
  • Microwave ovens.
  • Medical imaging (looking inside our bodies).

Additional Resources

• Playlist available for more information on the electromagnetic spectrum.
• MooMooMath uploads daily math and science videos.
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