Visible Light & Electromagnetic Spectrum

Front

What is visible light?

Back

Visible light is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be detected by the human eye, typically ranging from wavelengths of about 400 to 700 nanometers.

Front

What is the electromagnetic spectrum?

Back

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, including radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays.

Front

What happens when light is absorbed by an object?

Back

When light is absorbed by an object, the energy from the light is taken in by the object, often causing it to heat up.

Front

What is reflection of light?

Back

Reflection of light occurs when light bounces off a surface. The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.

Front

What is refraction of light?

Back

Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another, caused by a change in its speed.

Front

What is the role of a prism in light?

Back

A prism separates white light into its component colors (spectrum) by refraction.

Front

What is the difference between transparent, translucent, and opaque materials?

Back

Transparent materials allow light to pass through clearly, translucent materials allow some light to pass but scatter it, and opaque materials do not allow light to pass through.

Front

What is the significance of the wavelength of light?

Back

The wavelength of light determines its color and energy; shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy (e.g., blue light), while longer wavelengths correspond to lower energy (e.g., red light).

Front

What is the function of solar panels?

Back

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells.

Front

What is the principle behind a rainbow formation?

Back

A rainbow forms when sunlight is refracted, reflected, and dispersed in water droplets, resulting in a spectrum of colors.