The EM Spectrum
Electromagnetic spectrum ïƒ is the range of all types of Electromagnetic (EM) radiation.
Radiation ïƒ is energy that travels and spreads out as it goes. Ex. The visible light that comes from a lamp; radio waves that come from a radio station
1. Radio wavesïƒ - your radio captures radio waves emitted by radio stations, bringing your favorite tunes. Radio waves are also emitted by stars and gases in space.
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2. Microwaves - this type of radiation will cook your popcorn in few minutes and also used by astronomers to learn about the structure of nearby galaxies.
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3. Infrared - “body heat”. Night vision goggles pick up the infrared light emitted by our skin and objects with heat. In space, infrared light helps us map the dust between stars
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4. Visible light - what our eyes can detect Ex. Fireflies, light bulbs, and stars all emit visible light
( Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet.)
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5. Ultraviolet ïƒ - radiation is emitted by the sun and is the reason skin tans and burns. “Hot” objects in space emit UV radiation as
well.
6. X-rays - A dentist uses X-rays to image your teeth, and airport security uses them to see through your bag. Hot gases in the universe also emit X-rays
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7. Gamma rays ïƒ - most harmful radiation yet doctors use gamma-ray imaging to see inside your body. The biggest generator of all is the UNIVERSE (supernova explosion).
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