Which Of The Following Has The Shortest Wavelength

Which of the Following Has the Shortest Wavelength? Understanding the Electromagnetic Spectrum

This article will explore the electromagnetic spectrum and determine which type of electromagnetic radiation boasts the shortest wavelength. We'll delve into the properties of different forms of electromagnetic radiation, helping you understand the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and energy. By the end, you'll be able to confidently answer the question and understand the broader context of the electromagnetic spectrum.

The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses a vast range of electromagnetic radiation, all traveling at the speed of light. This radiation differs significantly in its wavelength and frequency, which directly impact its properties and applications. The shorter the wavelength, the higher the frequency and energy.

Let's consider some common types of electromagnetic radiation:

• Radio waves: These have the longest wavelengths, ranging from centimeters to kilometers. They're used in broadcasting, communication, and radar.
• Microwaves: Shorter than radio waves, microwaves are used in cooking and communication technologies. Their wavelengths typically range from millimeters to centimeters.
• Infrared (IR) radiation: IR radiation is felt as heat and has wavelengths slightly shorter than microwaves, typically in the micrometer range. It's used in thermal imaging and remote controls.
• Visible light: This is the portion of the spectrum we can see, with wavelengths ranging from approximately 400 to 700 nanometers (nm). Different wavelengths correspond to different colors, from violet (shortest) to red (longest).
• Ultraviolet (UV) radiation: Shorter than visible light, UV radiation has wavelengths ranging from 10 to 400 nm. It's responsible for sunburns and is used in sterilization.
• X-rays: X-rays have even shorter wavelengths, typically ranging from 0.01 to 10 nm. They're used in medical imaging and industrial applications.
• Gamma rays: These are the most energetic and have the shortest wavelengths, typically less than 0.01 nm. They're emitted by radioactive materials and are used in certain medical treatments and industrial processes.

Therefore, the electromagnetic radiation with the shortest wavelength is Gamma rays.

Understanding the Relationship Between Wavelength, Frequency, and Energy

The relationship between wavelength (λ), frequency (ν), and energy (E) of electromagnetic radiation is governed by the following equations:

• c = λν (where c is the speed of light)
• E = hν (where h is Planck's constant)

These equations show that wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional (as wavelength decreases, frequency increases), and both are directly proportional to energy (as frequency and energy increase, wavelength decreases). This explains why gamma rays, with the highest frequency, also possess the shortest wavelength and highest energy.

Applications of High-Energy, Short-Wavelength Radiation

The short wavelengths and high energy of gamma rays make them useful in various applications, despite their potential dangers. Their penetrating power allows them to be used in medical treatments like radiotherapy to destroy cancer cells. They are also utilized in industrial processes, such as sterilization and material analysis. However, it's crucial to handle gamma radiation with extreme caution due to its potential health risks.

In conclusion, while the electromagnetic spectrum contains a wide variety of radiation types, gamma rays unequivocally possess the shortest wavelength. Understanding the relationships between wavelength, frequency, and energy is crucial to appreciating the diverse properties and applications of electromagnetic radiation.