Electromagnetic waves possess several inherent properties: they travel in transverse waves, do not carry an electric charge, and adhere to the laws of refraction and reflection. These waves transfer energy and can move through a vacuum at a consistent speed of 3 x 10^8 meters per second.
Gamma Rays are even more harmful to living cells and tissue than X-rays. This is because Gamma Rays carry enough energy to remove electrons from atoms or molecules, thereby ionizing them.
Able to destroy brain tumours
Sterilising medical equipments
To kill cancer cells
Emitted by radioactive nuclei
X-Ray
Living cells and tissue can be damaged by X-rays. This is because X-rays carries enough energy to remove electrons from atoms or molecules, thereby ionizing them. Over exposure to X-rays increase the risk of developmental problems and cancer. The risk of radiation is greater to a fetus, so pregnant patients are advised to avoid exposure to X-rays.
Checking flaws in metals
Airport baggage scanner
Analysing the structure of a crystal
Used as a diagnostic tool in medicine and dentistry
Emitted by high energy electrons
Ultraviolet
Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays increases your risk of developing skin cancer.
used to detect forgery in bank notes, artificial suntanning
sterilising and disinfecting equipment
Visible
emitted by sun
used for optical fibres in telecommunication, lasers
for medical and industrial uses and photosynthesis
Infrared
Commonly used for heat detectors, Infrared rays
are used in Thermal cameras and Intruder Alarms.
Other usages are Remote Controls.
All objects emit and absorb infrared radiation, thus becoming hotter.
430THz-300GHz
Mircowaves
Used in Communication, GPS and Microwave ovens
Emitted by warm objects
300MHz-300GHz
Radio Waves
A strong enough beam of radio waves can penetrate the eye and heat the lens enough to cause cataracts.
Used to transmit information
E.g. radio,radar and RC vehicles
Emitted by lightning and astronomical objects
Generated by radio transmitters.
30Hz-300GHz
Similar Propeties
Do not carry electric charge
Travel in transverse waves
Obey the laws of Refraction and Reflection
They can travel through a vacuum
Travel at a constant speed of 3 x 10^8 ms-1 in vacuums
