Electromagnetic Spectrum Definition

Radio: A radio fundamentally captures radio waves that are further transmitted by radio stations. Radio waves can also be produced by gases and stars in space. Radio waves are largely used for TV or mobile communication. Extremely low frequency (ELF) radio waves of about 1 kHz or kilohertz are used to communicate with submerged submarines.

The capability of radio waves to penetrate saltwater is linked to their wavelength that is the longer the wavelength, the farther radio waves can penetrate. Saltwater is a good conductor of electricity, hence radio waves are strongly absorbed by it, and thus very long wavelengths (such as radio waves have long wavelengths) are required to reach a submarine under the water surface.

Microwave: This type of radiation is commonly found in microwaves and thus helps in cooking. It is also used by astronomers to comprehend the structure of galaxies and stars in space. Microwaves are referred to as the highest-frequency electromagnetic waves that can be formed by currents in macroscopic circuits and devices.

Infrared: It is used extensively in night vision goggles. In space, infrared light is used to map interstellar dust. Infrared radiation is commonly produced by thermal motion and the vibration and rotation of atoms and molecules.

X-ray: X-rays are used in many instances. For instance, a doctor uses an x-ray machine to capture an image of our bone or teeth. Airport security personnel use X-rays to see through our bags. X-rays have harmful effects on living cells like those of ultraviolet radiation, and they can be more penetrating, thus affect the surface layers of cells.

Gamma-ray: It has an extensive application in the medical field. The universe is the biggest producer or generator of gamma rays. Soon after nuclear radioactivity was first noticed in the year 1896, it was found that at least three different types of radiation were being emitted. It was found that the most penetrating nuclear radiation was the gamma-ray (γ ray) and have an extremely high frequency.

Generally, at higher frequencies, γ rays are more penetrating and more destructive to living tissue. Gamma radiation produced from radioactive materials is also used in nuclear medicine.

Ultraviolet: The main source of ultraviolet radiation is the sun. Hot materials that are present in space also produce UV radiation. Ultraviolet is also formed by atomic and molecular motions and electronic transitions. The wavelengths of ultraviolet ranges from about 400 nm to about 10 nm.

Visible: Visible light can be detected by the naked eye. Stars, bulbs, etc. emit visible light. Visible light is the narrow section of the electromagnetic spectrum to which the human eye responds. Visible light is commonly formed by vibrations and rotations of atoms and molecules, and also by electronic transitions in atoms and molecules. The receivers or detectors of light largely utilize electronic transitions.