EM Waves Bulletin Board
How They Start...
EM waves are created by vibrating electric charges. They have both electric and magnetic components.
EM Waves vs. Mechanical Waves
The main difference between EM waves and mechanical waves is that mechanical waves require a medium to travel through and EM waves can travel in a vacuum.
The Different Types of EM Waves
Gamma Rays
Gamma rays have the highest frequency and shortest wavelength. There most common use is killing cancer cells and seeing inside your body.
X Rays
X rays have the 2nd highest frequency and 2nd shortest wavelength. There most common use is creating medical images of bones and airport security.
Ultraviolet Rays
Ultraviolet rays have the 3rd highest frequency and 3rd shortest wavelength. There most common use is detecting forged banknotes. Sunscreen helps block these.
Visible Rays
Visible rays have the 4th highest frequency and 4th shortest wavelength. Visible rays appear as color and are the only EM rays you can see.
Infrared Rays
Infrared rays have the 3rd lowest frequency and 3rd longest wavelength. There most common use is to map the dust between stars and see heat in objects.
Microwaves
Microwaves have the 2nd lowest frequency and 2nd longest wavelength. There most common use is cooking food and mapping the structure of nearby galaxies.
Radio Waves
Radio have the lowest frequency and longest wavelength. There most common use is broadcasting radio and television.