Radio waves have the longest wavelengths. Uses: communications and broadcasting.

Microwaves have a shorter wavelength than radio waves. Uses: mobile phones, radar and cooking.

Infrared is given off by hot objects. Uses: heating and remote controls.

Visible light is detected by our eyes, allowing us to see. Uses: optical fibre communications and sight.

Ultraviolet radiation is absorbed by some materials, such as skin. Uses: tanning beds and security marking.

Gamma rays have the shortest wavelengths. Uses: sterilising medical equipment and cancer treatment.

X-rays pass through most materials. Uses: medical imaging and airport security screening.

© Hemera Technologies, scyther5, Iv Mirin, Parisvas, Jupiterimages and Elnur Amikishiyev; all Shutterstock.

Learn more about the electromagnetic spectrum with Boardworks Science for Years 7-10. Visit www.boardworks.co.uk/australiascience or call us at +44 845 0 300 400.

The Electromagnetic Spectrum

frequency, f (Hz)

wavelength, λ (m) increasing photon energy

long wave

short wave

UHFVHFinfrared

visi

ble

light

X-rays gamma raysmedium waveradio waves

micro- waves UV

105

104

104

105

103

106

102

107

101

108

100

109

10-1

1010

10-2

1011

10-3

1012

10-4

1013

10-5

1014

10-6

1015

10-7

1016

10-8

1017

10-9

1018

10-10

1019

10-11

1020

10-12

1021

1022

10-13

10-14

1023

10-15