The Electromagnetic Spectrum
4 marks · EasyThe electromagnetic spectrum is made up of different types of waves. Each type has different wavelengths and frequencies.
Name the type of electromagnetic wave with the shortest wavelength.
State one use for this type of wave.
Which type of wave has a longer wavelength than visible light but a shorter wavelength than radio waves?
Give a use for this type of wave.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
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(a) Gamma rays
(b) Treating cancer / sterilising medical equipment / killing bacteria in food
(c) Microwaves
(d) Cooking food (in microwave ovens) / satellite communication / mobile phone communication
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Correctly names gamma rays as the wave with the shortest wavelength.
B1 (b) · 1 mark · Gives a correct use of gamma rays.
B1 (c) · 1 mark · Correctly names microwaves as the wave with wavelength longer than visible light but shorter than radio.
B1 (d) · 1 mark · Gives a correct use for microwaves.
Worked solution
a) Gamma rays have the shortest wavelength.
b) Gamma rays are used for treating cancer (radiotherapy), sterilising equipment, and killing bacteria in food.
c) The wave with wavelength longer than visible light but shorter than radio waves is microwaves.
d) Microwaves are used for cooking food in microwave ovens and for satellite/mobile phone communication.