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As per the definition of the electromagnetic spectrum, it is the distribution of electromagnetic radiation with different wavelengths, frequencies and energy of photons. The wavelength of these electromagnetic waves ranges from more than a thousand kilometres to less than a fraction of the size of the tiny atomic nucleus.
A frequent question that comes to our mind is why is it important to learn about the electromagnetic spectrum as a physicist? The answer to this question is in various implications of the electromagnetic spectrum in modern technology like establishing communication systems, sterilisation and more.
What does the electromagnetic spectrum mean in physics?
The definition of the electromagnetic spectrum states that it is a band of frequencies that gives rise to different electromagnetic waves of varying frequencies. The frequency range is divided into bands within the electromagnetic spectrum. Each band forms a different electromagnetic wave. The different electromagnetic waves generated by different frequency bands are-
Radio waves
Microwaves
Infrared rays
Visible light
Ultraviolet
X-rays
Gamma rays
Types and implications of the electromagnetic spectrum
The frequency and wavelength divide the electromagnetic spectrum into various electromagnetic waves. These waves are different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. To understand the Implication of the electromagnetic spectrum in physics, we need to understand the electromagnetic wave’s usage. This will help us know why it is important to learn about the electromagnetic spectrum. So, let us have a detailed explanation of various regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Radio waves
Radio waves are electromagnetic radiations with the longest wavelengths. Their emission and reception occur through antennas. They are used to transmit sound messages, and communication as well as used in the navigation of aircraft. The most eminent use of radio waves is establishing a communication system such as televisions, radio broadcasting, wireless networking and more.
Microwave
The microwaves have wavelengths shorter than the radio waves. The range of its wavelength is from ten centimetres to one millimetre. Devices like klystron and magnetron can generate them. Polar molecules can absorb microwaves. Besides, they can penetrate inside materials and release energy below the surface. Hence, they are significantly used to heat food. They are also used in satellite communication and wireless technologies.
Infrared radiations
The frequency of infrared radiation ranges from 300GHz to 400THz. The infrared radiations are divided into far-infrared, mid-infrared and near-infrared regions. Hot objects are capable of radiating infrared radiation. They are used in photographic films, image sensors and infrared photography. The most important use of infrared radiation is in thermography. It is also used in remote sensing which is used in various weather applications.
Visible light
Visible light is the only part of the electromagnetic spectrum that human eyes can see. The wavelength of visible light ranges from 380 nm to 760 nm. When passed through a prism, the visible light can be seen to form its spectrum of different frequencies and wavelengths. The visible light is used in photography and also to illuminate objects. Also, an important use of visible light is made in fibre optics communication.
Ultraviolet rays
The energetic photons of UV-rays can ionise atoms and cause chemical reactions. Extreme exposure to UV-rays can cause damage to DNA and cancer. These rays are primarily used to kill germs and for sterilisation. Ultraviolet rays are also used for creating a fluorescent effect.
X-Rays
Due to their high energy, X-rays can interact with matter by the Compton effect. They can also cause ionisation. They are used in radiography and as probes in high-energy physics.
Gamma rays
The photons of gamma rays are the most energetic, and these rays have no lower limit on their wavelength. A number of radioisotopes produce gamma rays. They are used for the irradiation of food and sterilisation. Gamma rays are occasionally used to treat cancer through radiation therapy in the medical field.
Why is it important to learn about the electromagnetic spectrum in physics?
The electromagnetic spectrum forms the basis of the functioning of the universe. Without the electromagnetic spectrum, it would become impossible for us to see or for the stars to shine, and in short, life would not exist without it. Furthermore, it proves its value by reaching the deepest cosmos and providing knowledge of things that our eyes can witness as the electromagnetic spectrum can travel long distances without any hindrance.
Conclusion
The electromagnetic spectrum is a collection of different electromagnetic waves.
These waves have different frequencies and wavelengths. Hence separated names are given to these waves like- radio waves, microwaves and more. The electromagnetic spectrum is extremely important to the entire universe. It has found use in various fields by humans.
