The Hubble Space Telescope detects electromagnetic energy in the wavelength range 1.15 * 10-7 m to 2.0 * 10-6 m. What region of the electromagnetic spectrum is found completely within this range? What regions fall partially in this range?

Key Concepts

Electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses all types of electromagnetic radiation, which vary in wavelength and frequency. It includes gamma rays, X-rays, ultraviolet light, visible light, infrared radiation, microwaves, and radio waves. Understanding the spectrum is crucial for identifying which types of radiation fall within specific wavelength ranges, such as those detected by the Hubble Space Telescope.

Wavelength and Frequency

Wavelength is the distance between successive peaks of a wave, while frequency is the number of waves that pass a point in one second. These two properties are inversely related; as wavelength increases, frequency decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is essential for determining the specific regions of the electromagnetic spectrum that correspond to the given wavelength range of the Hubble Space Telescope.

Regions of the Electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum is divided into various regions based on wavelength. The range of 1.15 * 10^-7 m to 2.0 * 10^-6 m includes ultraviolet (UV) light and infrared (IR) radiation. Identifying which regions fall completely or partially within this range helps in understanding the capabilities of the Hubble Space Telescope and the types of astronomical observations it can make.