Electromagnetic Spectrum Electromagnetic Spectrum Electromagnetic Spectrum Wide range

Electromagnetic Spectrum

Electromagnetic Spectrum • Electromagnetic Spectrum- Wide range of electromagnetic waves with different frequencies and wavelengths and divided into parts – All waves travel at the same speed in empty space

Electromagnetic Spectrum

Radio Waves • Radio Waves- Lowest frequency of all electromagnetic waves and carry the least energy – Ex: TV, AM/FM • Antennas vibrate to send or receive radio waves • Microwaves are used to heat food and transmit calls on cell phones • Radar uses electromagnetic waves to detect objects like echolocation

Infrared Waves • Infrared Waves. Electromagnetic waves that emit heat. • Infrared detectors detect objects that are warmer and cooler than their surroundings – Ex: Pit vipers use infrared to detect prey

Visible Light • Visible Light- Electromagnetic waves that you can see with your eyes – Different wavelengths have different colors – Red light (longest wavelength) and blue light (shortest wavelength) • Most objects don’t emit light; they reflect light

Ultraviolet Radiation • Has higher frequency than visible light and even shorter wavelengths • Carries more energy and can damage large molecules and kill cells • Ex: Sunburn • Benefits- Vitamin D is able to be produced and disinfect equipment to sterilize • Ozone layer absorbs some of the UV rays

X Rays and Gamma Rays • X rays have higher frequency than UV rays and can go through skin and muscle • Gamma rays have highest frequency and carry the most energy – Produced by changes in the nuclei of atoms • X rays and gamma rays can damage and kill cells • Gamma rays are used to kill cancer and bacteria