Understanding Wavelength, Frequency, and Velocity

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AP Physics 1 › Understanding Wavelength, Frequency, and Velocity

Questions 1 - 1
1

In the electromagnetic spectrum, __________ have the highest frequency and __________ have the greatest energy per photon.

gamma rays . . . gamma rays

X-rays . . . radio waves

ultraviolet light . . . X-rays

infrared light . . . ultraviolet light

microwaves . . . microwaves

Explanation

The relationship between frequency and energy is determined by Planck's constant in a direct relationship. This means that as frequency increases, energy increases as well.

The electromagnetic waves with the highest frequency will have the greatest energy per photon, and vice versa.

In the electromagnetic spectrum, radio waves have the lowest frequency (largest wavelength) and gamma rays have the highest frequency (shortest wavelength). Gamma rays will thus have the highest frequency and greatest energy.

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