What is the electromagnetic spectrum?

The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses all types of electromagnetic radiation organized according to their wavelengths or frequencies. This range includes well-known categories such as radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays. Each type of radiation is characterized by its wavelength and frequency, which determine its properties and how it interacts with matter.

Understanding the electromagnetic spectrum is crucial in various fields, such as telecommunications, medicine, and astronomy, where different wavelengths serve unique purposes. For instance, visible light is essential for human vision, while X-rays are used in medical imaging. This arrangement allows scientists and engineers to classify and utilize these waves effectively depending on their applications.