Electromagnetic Waves and Energy Concepts

Front

What are visible light waves?

Back

The ONLY electromagnetic waves we can SEE!

Front

What is wavelength?

Back

The distance from crest to crest or trough to trough.

Front

What is frequency?

Back

The number of waves per second.

Front

What is the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and energy?

Back

Longer wavelength = low frequency = low energy (e.g., radio waves, microwaves, infrared). Shorter wavelength = high frequency = high energy (e.g., Gamma rays, X-rays, Ultraviolet waves).

Front

What is insolation?

Back

Incoming solar radiation.

Front

What is reflection?

Back

Bouncing of wave energy.

Front

What is absorption?

Back

To take in wave energy.

Front

What type of surfaces absorb energy?

Back

Dark and rough surfaces (e.g., black asphalt roads, dark clothing).

Front

What type of surfaces reflect energy?

Back

Light and smooth surfaces (e.g., Snow, mirror, ice, light clothing, light colored roofs, light colored buildings).

Front

What is conduction?

Back

Heat transfer by direct contact (e.g., Pot touching the flame of a stovetop).