The Electromagnetic Spectrum longest wavelength shortest wavelength The Electromagnetic Spectrum the name given to a group of energy waves that are mostly invisible and can travel through empty space The waves with the LONGEST wavelength (radio waves) are on the LEFT. The waves with the SHORTEST wavelength (gamma waves) are on the RIGHT.

Characteristics of Radio waves: longest wavelength shortest wavelength Characteristics of Radio waves: longest wavelength. transmit radio, TV signals.

Characteristics of Microwaves: longest wavelength shortest wavelength Characteristics of Microwaves: shortest wavelength radio waves. absorbed by water molecules.

Characteristics of Infrared waves: longest wavelength shortest wavelength Characteristics of Infrared waves: shorter wavelength than microwaves. felt as heat. hot objects give off infrared waves.

Characteristics of Visible light: longest wavelength shortest wavelength Characteristics of Visible light: shorter wavelength than infrared waves. can be seen as colors. ½ of sun’s rays are visible light.

Characteristics of Ultraviolet light: longest wavelength shortest wavelength Characteristics of Ultraviolet light: shorter wavelength than visible light. can kill living cells. causes skin cancer.

Characteristics of X-ray radiation: longest wavelength shortest wavelength Characteristics of X-ray radiation: shorter wavelength than ultraviolet. pass through skin, not bone. harmful to humans.

Characteristics of Gamma radiation: longest wavelength shortest wavelength Characteristics of Gamma radiation: shortest wavelength (highest energy). from radioactivity or nuclear reactions. harmful to humans.