Electromagnetic Spectrum

The Figure 6-18 in my text book was an example of an electromagnetic spectrum, which is all wavelengths of light both seen and unseen (Trefil & Hazen, 2010). The display of the electromagnetic spectrum showed gamma rays, X-rays, ultraviolet light, infrared, visible light, microwave, radio waves, as well as a visible spectrum wavelength (Trefil & Hazen, 2010). The diagram shows at what frequency and wavelength each wave moves and what it allows us to see, hear, and feel with visible light and/or specialized equipment, and often we see, hear, or feel nothing at all, but they are there. Lower frequency means longer wavelengths and higher frequency provides shorter more energetic wavelengths (Trefil & Hazen, 2010). The figures at the bottom of the diagram are there to show the comparison of various wavelengths to actual sizes in everyday life. Trefil and Hazen say to “Remember that every one of these waves, no matter what its wavelength or frequency, is the result of an accelerating electrical charge” (2010). Radiation is “The transfer of heat by electromagnetic radiation. The only one of the three mechanisms of heat transfer that does not require atoms or molecules to facilitate the transfer process” (Trefil & Hazen, 2010). Radiation traveling in the form of electromagnetic waves; energy that travels and spreads out as it goes (Trefil & Hazen, 2010).
Below are everyday examples of the seven types of radiation that were seen on Figure 6-18. 1. Gamma rays- Used in the medical field to kill tumors in cancer patients. 2. X-rays- Used at the dentist office to allow visual images of teeth, bones, and organs. 3. Ultraviolet light- Tanning and sunburns caused by this radiation. 4. Infrared- Skin absorbs this radiation because we are warm objects. This radiation is demonstrated using night vision goggles for hunting at night. The animals omit a glow because they are also warm objects. 5. Visible light- What we