Which electromagnetic waves have the shortest wavelength?

Study for the IAC White Set Science Bee Test. Enhance your knowledge with quizzes and detailed explanations. Prepare effectively and excel on your test!

Multiple Choice

Which electromagnetic waves have the shortest wavelength?

Explanation:
Short wavelengths go with higher frequency and higher photon energy. Since wavelength and frequency are tied by λ = c/f and energy per photon by E = hf, the higher the frequency, the smaller the wavelength. Gamma rays sit at the highest frequencies among these options, so their wavelengths are the smallest. In comparison, ultraviolet has longer wavelengths than gamma rays, microwaves have even longer wavelengths, and radio waves have the longest wavelengths. So gamma rays have the shortest wavelength overall.

Short wavelengths go with higher frequency and higher photon energy. Since wavelength and frequency are tied by λ = c/f and energy per photon by E = hf, the higher the frequency, the smaller the wavelength. Gamma rays sit at the highest frequencies among these options, so their wavelengths are the smallest. In comparison, ultraviolet has longer wavelengths than gamma rays, microwaves have even longer wavelengths, and radio waves have the longest wavelengths. So gamma rays have the shortest wavelength overall.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy