Question

Which of the following electromagnetic waves has the highest frequency? (A) radiowaves (B) microwaves (C) \(\gamma\) rays (D) \(\mathrm{x}\) rays

Short answer

The electromagnetic wave with the highest frequency among the given options is \( (C) \ \gamma \textrm{-rays} \).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the given electromagnetic waves

We have the following electromagnetic waves in the given options: (A) Radio waves (B) Microwaves (C) Gamma rays (D) X-rays

Determine their positions in the electromagnetic spectrum

We can list the given waves in order according to their positions in the spectrum: 1. Radio waves 2. Microwaves 3. X-rays 4. Gamma rays

Identify the wave with the highest frequency

As we go from radio waves to gamma rays in the electromagnetic spectrum, the frequency of the waves increases. So, the electromagnetic wave with the highest frequency in the given options is: \( (C) \ \gamma \textrm{-rays} \) Therefore, the electromagnetic wave with the highest frequency among the given options is gamma rays.

Key concepts

Electromagnetic Waves

Electromagnetic waves are a fascinating aspect of physics. They are waves that can travel through the vacuum of outer space. Unlike sound waves, which need air or water to travel, electromagnetic waves do not need a medium. Some common examples include:

• Radio waves
• Microwaves
• Infrared light
• Visible light
• Ultraviolet light
• X-rays
• Gamma rays

These waves are produced by the movement of charged particles. Whenever charged particles, like electrons, accelerate, they emit electromagnetic waves. This incredible range of waves forms what we call the electromagnetic spectrum.

The spectrum ranges from low frequency, long wavelength waves like radio waves, to high frequency, short wavelength waves like gamma rays. It is essential for various technologies like radios, cell phones, and even medical imaging.

Frequency

Frequency is a key concept in understanding electromagnetic waves. It refers to the number of wave cycles that pass a point in one second. Frequency is measured in hertz (Hz). It helps us understand the different types of electromagnetic waves.

In the electromagnetic spectrum, waves with higher frequencies have more energy. This is why gamma rays, with very high frequencies, are more energetic than radio waves. The relationship between frequency and wavelength is important: as frequency increases, the wavelength decreases. They are inversely proportional. The formula to remember is:\[ c = f \cdot \lambda \]where \( c \) is the speed of light, \( f \) is frequency, and \( \lambda \) is wavelength.

Understanding frequency is vital for applications like wireless communication and medical technologies.

Gamma Rays

Gamma rays are extremely high frequency electromagnetic waves with the shortest wavelengths. They have more energy than any other wave in the electromagnetic spectrum. They often originate from radioactive atoms and nuclear reactions, such as those found in stars. Gamma rays can also be produced in certain high-energy physics experiments.

Due to their high energy, gamma rays can penetrate materials that light or radio waves cannot. This penetrating ability makes them useful in various fields. For instance, they are used in medicine to kill cancer cells in a process known as radiotherapy. However, their high energy also means they can be quite dangerous to living cells.

Their unique properties require special caution when using and studying gamma rays.

X-rays

X-rays fall between ultraviolet light and gamma rays on the electromagnetic spectrum. They have relatively high energy and short wavelengths compared to visible light. Wilhelm Röntgen discovered X-rays, and they have since become invaluable in medicine and industry.

In medical imaging, X-rays help create images of the inside of our bodies. This is crucial for diagnosing fractures and other medical conditions. They work by passing through soft tissues and being absorbed by denser materials like bones, creating a contrasting image.

Despite their usefulness, X-rays must be used carefully due to their ability to ionize atoms. Ionization can damage cells, so medical personnel use lead shields and other precautions to protect patients and themselves from excess exposure.