Question

Arrange the following types of electromagnetic radiation in order of increasing wavelength. a. ultraviolet light c. radio waves b. microwaves d. X rays

Short answer

The order of increasing wavelengths for the given types of electromagnetic radiation is: d. X rays, a. ultraviolet light, b. microwaves, and c. radio waves.

Step-by-step solution

Recall the Electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all possible frequencies of electromagnetic radiation, arranged in order of increasing wavelength. To sort the given types of electromagnetic radiation in increasing wavelength, we should recall their positions in the electromagnetic spectrum.

Identify the positions of given electromagnetic radiations in the spectrum

The four types of electromagnetic radiation given in the exercise are ultraviolet light, microwaves, radio waves, and X-rays. Their corresponding positions in the electromagnetic spectrum, based on increasing wavelengths, are: 1. X-rays: X-rays have the shortest wavelength among the given electromagnetic radiation types. 2. Ultraviolet light: Ultraviolet light has a longer wavelength than X-rays but shorter than the other given types. 3. Microwaves: Microwaves have longer wavelengths than ultraviolet light and X-rays, and shorter wavelengths than radio waves. 4. Radio waves: Radio waves have the longest wavelength among the given types of electromagnetic radiation.

Arrange the given electromagnetic radiations in increasing wavelengths

Based on the identified positions in the electromagnetic spectrum, we can now arrange the given types of electromagnetic radiation in the order of increasing wavelengths: d. X rays a. ultraviolet light b. microwaves c. radio waves Therefore, the order of increasing wavelengths for the given types of electromagnetic radiation is X rays, ultraviolet light, microwaves, and radio waves.

Key concepts

Wavelength

The term "wavelength" is a fundamental concept in physics. It refers to the distance between successive crests of a wave, usually measured in meters. Wavelength is crucial because it determines many properties of electromagnetic radiation. The electromagnetic spectrum is often categorized by these wavelengths.

• When the wavelength is shorter, the wave is more energetic.
• Longer wavelengths mean the wave has less energy.
• Examples include X-rays with short wavelengths and radio waves with long ones.

Understanding wavelength allows us to categorize different types of electromagnetic radiation and predict their behaviors.

Electromagnetic Radiation

Electromagnetic radiation encompasses waves of energy associated with electric and magnetic fields. It travels through space at the speed of light. These waves differ in wavelength and frequency, which gives us the vast electromagnetic spectrum.

• From radio waves to gamma rays, they all form electromagnetic radiation.
• Visible light is just a small part of this spectrum.
• Different waves have different applications, from communication to medical imaging.

Electromagnetic radiation is pivotal in many technological advancements and everyday applications. Recognizing the different types broadens our understanding of the universe.

Radiowaves

Radio waves are at the long-wavelength end of the electromagnetic spectrum. They can be as short as a football field or stretch over kilometers. These waves are primarily used for communication.

• They enable television, radio broadcasting, and mobile phone communication.
• Radio waves penetrate through the atmosphere, making them useful for broadcasting over long distances.
• They are less energetic compared to higher-frequency waves, making them safer for daily use.

Recognizing the role of radio waves enhances our appreciation for modern communication technology.

X-rays

X-rays have a considerably short wavelength, placing them near the high-frequency end of the electromagnetic spectrum. Their energy levels are high, making them effective for medical imaging, as they can penetrate body tissues but not bones.

• X-rays are utilized in radiology to view the inside of the body.
• They also have applications in security scanners and astronomical observations.
• While beneficial, caution is necessary as they can be harmful with excessive exposure.

Understanding X-rays helps us grasp their importance in both medical and scientific fields.

Ultraviolet Light

Ultraviolet (UV) light falls just beyond the visible spectrum, with wavelengths shorter than visible light but longer than X-rays. It is primarily emitted by the sun but has many practical applications.

• UV light helps produce vitamin D in skin, yet excessive exposure can cause skin damage.
• It is used in sanitation and disinfection processes, taking advantage of its ability to kill bacteria and viruses.
• UV light is also employed in black lights and forensics to detect substances not seen by the naked eye.

Knowledge of UV light's properties and effects is essential for both health and scientific applications.

Microwaves

Microwaves have shorter wavelengths than radio waves but longer than infrared waves, placing them midway in the electromagnetic spectrum. They are best known for their use in microwave ovens.

• Microwaves heat food by causing water molecules to vibrate, producing heat.
• They're crucial in radar technology for communication and weather forecasting.
• Satellites also use microwaves for sending information back to Earth.

Microwaves have diverse applications, making understanding their properties key to harnessing technology effectively.