The Electromagnetic Spectrum
4 marks · NormalThe electromagnetic spectrum includes waves with a wide range of wavelengths and frequencies.
State the relationship between wavelength and frequency for electromagnetic waves.
Arrange the following electromagnetic waves in order of increasing wavelength: infrared, gamma rays, microwaves, visible light.
Why do gamma rays have a higher frequency than microwaves? Explain in terms of energy.
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(a) The wavelength and frequency of electromagnetic waves are inversely proportional.
(b) Gamma rays, visible light, infrared, microwaves.
(c) Gamma rays have higher energy than microwaves, and since energy increases with frequency, gamma rays have a higher frequency than microwaves.
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Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Correctly states the inverse relationship.
A1 (b) · 2 marks · All four groups in the correct order.
B2 (c) · 1 mark · Link between energy and frequency is clearly stated.
Worked solution
a) The wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional: as one increases, the other decreases.
b) Gamma rays (shortest), visible light, infrared, microwaves (longest).
c) The energy of electromagnetic waves increases with frequency. Gamma rays carry more energy than microwaves so have higher frequency.