Examples of the Electromagnetic Spectrum: Sample Problems

Try each one on paper first. Only then reveal the solution — reading a worked answer you never attempted teaches you almost nothing.

1. 1. A device emits radiation with a wavelength of 3.0 cm. Which region is it, and what is a likely use?

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2. 2. Rank these by increasing photon energy: a dental X-ray, a TV remote, and a black light.

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3. 3. Why is UV dangerous to skin while radio waves are not?

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Al says…

Walk through your house region by region: radio in the car, microwave in the kitchen, infrared in the TV remote, visible from the lamp, UV out the window.