Electromagnetic Spectrum

Front

What distinguishes electromagnetic waves from mechanical waves?

Back

Electromagnetic waves can travel through empty space, while mechanical waves require a medium.

Front

Define electromagnetic waves.

Back

Electromagnetic waves are oscillations of electric and magnetic fields that carry energy through space.

Front

How does wavelength relate to frequency and energy in electromagnetic waves?

Back

A wave with a large wavelength has a low frequency and low energy.

Front

What happens to the energy of a photon as the frequency of the electromagnetic wave increases?

Back

The energy of the photon increases as the frequency increases.

Front

In what two ways does light behave?

Back

Light behaves like both a particle and a wave.

Front

What is the speed of electromagnetic waves in a vacuum?

Back

The speed of electromagnetic waves in a vacuum is approximately 299,792 kilometers per second (or about 186,282 miles per second).

Front

What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength in electromagnetic waves?

Back

Frequency and wavelength are inversely related; as frequency increases, wavelength decreases.

Front

What is the electromagnetic spectrum?

Back

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, ordered by frequency or wavelength.

Front

Name the different types of electromagnetic waves in the spectrum from lowest to highest frequency.

Back

Radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, gamma rays.

Front

What is the visible spectrum?

Back

The visible spectrum is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is visible to the human eye, typically ranging from about 400 to 700 nanometers.