Which type of radiation has the longest wavelengths among common electromagnetic waves?

Explore Alberta's Grade 8 Science curriculum on Light and Optical Systems. Test your knowledge with engaging quizzes including flashcards and multiple choice questions. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which type of radiation has the longest wavelengths among common electromagnetic waves?

Explanation:
The key idea is how wavelength relates to frequency in the electromagnetic spectrum. Wavelength and frequency are inversely related (the speed of light is constant, so λ = c/f). Lower frequency means longer wavelength. Radio waves and microwaves sit at the low-frequency end, so they have the longest wavelengths—ranging from millimeters up to thousands of kilometers for radio waves. The other options have higher frequencies and thus shorter wavelengths: gamma rays, X-rays, and ultraviolet all have much shorter wavelengths. So the longest wavelengths among common electromagnetic waves are radio waves and microwaves.

The key idea is how wavelength relates to frequency in the electromagnetic spectrum. Wavelength and frequency are inversely related (the speed of light is constant, so λ = c/f). Lower frequency means longer wavelength. Radio waves and microwaves sit at the low-frequency end, so they have the longest wavelengths—ranging from millimeters up to thousands of kilometers for radio waves. The other options have higher frequencies and thus shorter wavelengths: gamma rays, X-rays, and ultraviolet all have much shorter wavelengths. So the longest wavelengths among common electromagnetic waves are radio waves and microwaves.

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