Electromagnetic waves

Electromagnetic waves

The electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum (in order of increasing wavelength) is:

Gamma and x-rays

Ultraviolet

Visible

Infa-red

Microwaves

Radio

All electromagnetic waves travel through space at a speed of 300 million m/s.

Wave speed= wavelength x frequency.

Gamma rays and x-rays

X-rays and gamma radiation are absorbed by dense materials in bone and by 2metal.

X-rays and gamma radiation damage living tissue when they pass through it.

X-rays are used in hospitals to take radiographs.

Gamma rays are used to kill harmful bacteria in food, to sterilise…