Electromagnetic Waves

1. Uses

1.1. Radio: Your radio captures radio waves emitted by radio stations, bringing your favorite tunes. Radio waves are also emitted by stars and gases in space.

1.2. Microwave: Microwave radiation will cook your popcorn in just a few minutes, but is also used by astronomers to learn about the structure of nearby galaxies.

1.3. nfrared: Night vision goggles pick up the infrared light emitted by our skin and objects with heat. In space, infrared light helps us map the dust between stars.

1.4. X-ray: A dentist uses X-rays to image your teeth, and airport security uses them to see through your bag. Hot gases in the Universe also emit X-rays.

1.5. Gamma ray: Doctors use gamma-ray imaging to see inside your body. The biggest gamma-ray generator of all is the Universe.

2. Differneces

2.1. Frequency

2.2. Wavelength

3. Properties

3.1. no medium is required for the wave to travel

3.2. carries energy

3.3. has momentum and can exert pressure

3.4. travel with a constant velocity of 3 x 108 ms-1 in vacuum.

3.5. transverse waves

3.6. polarised

3.7. can show interference or diffraction