electromagnetic spectrum

Also known as EM spectrum, light spectrum

entire range and scope of frequencies of electromagnetic radiation

AI overview

The electromagnetic spectrum is the complete range of all electromagnetic waves, organized by their frequencies from the lowest (like radio waves) to the highest (like gamma rays). It matters because these waves power many technologies we use daily—from radio and television to microwaves and medical X-rays—and understanding them helps us use these tools safely and effectively.

AI-generated from the Wikipedia summary — may contain errors.

Wikidata facts

Image: Complete electromagnetic spectrum.svg

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Commons category: Electromagnetic spectrum
Stack Exchange tag: astronomy.stackexchange.com/tags/electromagnetic-spectrum

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Article

A diagram of the electromagnetic spectrum, showing various properties across the range of frequencies and wavelengths

The electromagnetic spectrum is the full range of electromagnetic radiation, organized by frequency or wavelength. The spectrum is divided into separate bands, with different names for the electromagnetic waves within each band. From low to high frequency these are: radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. The electromagnetic waves in each of these bands have different characteristics, such as how they are produced, how they interact with matter, and their practical applications.