Electromagnetic Spectrum

Overview

• The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of frequencies or wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation.
• It is divided into regions from right to left:
  • Radio Waves
  • Microwaves
  • Infrared Radiation
  • Visible Light
  • Ultraviolet Radiation
  • X-rays
  • Gamma Rays

Characteristics of the Spectrum

• Wavelength:
  • Radio waves have the longest wavelength.
  • Gamma rays have the shortest wavelength.
• Frequency:
  • Radio waves have a low frequency.
  • Gamma rays have a high frequency.
• Energy:
  • Radio waves have low energy.
  • Gamma rays have high energy.
• General Trend: As we move from right to left on the spectrum:
  • Wavelength decreases.
  • Frequency and energy increase.

Visible Light Region

• Comprises all frequencies or wavelengths of visible light.
• Red Light:
  • Longest wavelength.
  • Lowest frequency.
  • Lowest energy.
• Violet Light:
  • Shortest wavelength.
  • Highest frequency.
  • Highest energy.
• Order of Colors in Visible Light:
  • Red → Orange → Yellow → Green → Blue → Indigo → Violet
  • As we move from red to violet, wavelength decreases while frequency and energy increase.