A popular kitchen appliance produces electromagnetic radiation with a frequency of 2450 MHz. With reference to Figure 6.4, answer the following: (b) Would the radiation produced by the appliance be visible to the human eye?

Key Concepts

Electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses all types of electromagnetic radiation, arranged by frequency or wavelength. It ranges from low-frequency radio waves to high-frequency gamma rays. The visible spectrum, which is the portion detectable by the human eye, lies between approximately 400 nm (violet) and 700 nm (red). Understanding where a specific frequency falls within this spectrum is crucial for determining its visibility.

Frequency and Wavelength

Frequency refers to the number of cycles of a wave that pass a point in one second, measured in hertz (Hz). Wavelength is the distance between successive peaks of a wave, typically measured in nanometers (nm) for light. The relationship between frequency and wavelength is inversely proportional; as frequency increases, wavelength decreases. This relationship helps to categorize electromagnetic radiation into different types, including visible light.

Microwave Radiation

Microwave radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation with frequencies ranging from about 300 MHz to 300 GHz, corresponding to wavelengths from 1 meter to 1 millimeter. The frequency of 2450 MHz, as mentioned in the question, falls within the microwave range. Microwaves are not visible to the human eye, as they lie outside the visible spectrum, which is essential for answering whether the radiation produced by the appliance is visible.