Arrange the following kinds of electromagnetic radiation in order of increasing wavelength: infrared light, green light, red light, radio waves, X rays, ultraviolet light.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that electromagnetic radiation can be arranged by wavelength, frequency, or energy. Wavelength and frequency are inversely related, while energy is directly related to frequency.
2. Recall the general order of electromagnetic spectrum from shortest to longest wavelength: gamma rays, X-rays, ultraviolet (UV) light, visible light (violet to red), infrared (IR) light, microwaves, and radio waves.
3. Identify the given types of radiation: infrared light, green light, red light, radio waves, X-rays, and ultraviolet light.
4. Place the visible light colors in order of increasing wavelength: green light has a shorter wavelength than red light.
5. Arrange the given types of radiation in order of increasing wavelength: X-rays, ultraviolet light, green light, red light, infrared light, radio waves.

Key Concepts

Electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses all types of electromagnetic radiation, arranged by wavelength. It ranges from gamma rays with very short wavelengths to radio waves with much longer wavelengths. Understanding this spectrum is crucial for categorizing different types of radiation and their properties.

Wavelength

Wavelength is the distance between successive peaks of a wave, typically measured in nanometers (nm) for light. In the context of electromagnetic radiation, shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy and frequency, while longer wavelengths indicate lower energy and frequency. This relationship is fundamental for comparing different types of radiation.

Types of Electromagnetic Radiation

Different types of electromagnetic radiation, such as infrared, visible light (including green and red light), ultraviolet, X-rays, and radio waves, have distinct properties and applications. For example, infrared is used in thermal imaging, while X-rays are utilized in medical imaging. Recognizing these types helps in understanding their arrangement by wavelength.