Question
Which of the following waves on the electromagnetic spectrum has the longest wavelength? \( (1 \) poi X-rays infrared waves microwaves gamma rays
Ask by Garrett Bartlett. in the United States
Jan 23,2025
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Answer
Microwaves have the longest wavelength among the given options.
Solution
To determine which wave on the electromagnetic spectrum has the longest wavelength, we can compare the general characteristics of the waves listed:
1. **X-rays**: These have relatively short wavelengths, typically in the range of \(0.01\) to \(10\) nanometers.
2. **Infrared waves**: These have longer wavelengths than X-rays, generally ranging from \(700\) nanometers to \(1\) millimeter.
3. **Microwaves**: These have even longer wavelengths, typically ranging from \(1\) millimeter to \(1\) meter.
4. **Gamma rays**: These have the shortest wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum, usually less than \(0.01\) nanometers.
Based on this information, the order of wavelengths from longest to shortest is:
- Microwaves
- Infrared waves
- X-rays
- Gamma rays
Thus, the wave with the longest wavelength among the options provided is **microwaves**.
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Infrared waves have the longest wavelength compared to X-rays, microwaves, and gamma rays. Infrared radiation typically ranges from about 700 nanometers to 1 millimeter in wavelength, making it less energetic but quite useful for applications like remote controls and thermal imaging. In the real world, infrared waves play a crucial role in technology and nature. For example, they are used in night-vision equipment to detect heat emitted by objects, which is vital in various fields including military, surveillance, and wildlife observation. Plus, plants absorb infrared radiation during photosynthesis, showcasing its importance in sustaining life on Earth!
