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Which Type Of Electromagnetic Waves Has The Lowest Frequency

Which Type Of Electromagnetic Waves Has The Lowest Frequency

less than a minute read 03-01-2025
Which Type Of Electromagnetic Waves Has The Lowest Frequency

Radio waves possess the lowest frequency within the electromagnetic spectrum. This means they also have the longest wavelength.

Understanding the Electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses all types of electromagnetic radiation, arranged in order of increasing frequency (and decreasing wavelength). This spectrum includes, from lowest to highest frequency:

  • Radio waves: Used in broadcasting, communication, and radar.
  • Microwaves: Used in cooking, communication, and radar.
  • Infrared radiation: Felt as heat; used in thermal imaging and remote controls.
  • Visible light: The only part of the spectrum visible to the human eye, ranging from red (lowest frequency) to violet (highest frequency).
  • Ultraviolet radiation: Can cause sunburn; used in sterilization and some medical treatments.
  • X-rays: Used in medical imaging and security scanning.
  • Gamma rays: The highest frequency and most energetic form of electromagnetic radiation; used in medical treatments and industrial applications.

Frequency and Wavelength Relationship

It's crucial to remember that frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional. This means that as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa. The speed of light (c) remains constant, and the relationship is defined by the equation:

c = fλ

where:

  • c is the speed of light
  • f is the frequency
  • λ is the wavelength

Because radio waves have the longest wavelength, they naturally have the lowest frequency.

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