Electromagnetic waves, light, and radio waves are all part of the electromagnetic spectrum, but they differ in terms of their frequency, wavelength, and how they are typically used.
Electromagnetic Waves: Electromagnetic waves are a form of energy that propagate through space in the form of oscillating electric and magnetic fields. They are produced by the acceleration of charged particles and are characterized by their frequency and wavelength. The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses a wide range of waves, including radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays.
Light: Light specifically refers to the range of electromagnetic waves that are visible to the human eye. Visible light occupies a small portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, with wavelengths ranging from about 400 to 700 nanometers. It is the part of the spectrum that enables us to see the world around us.
Radio Waves: Radio waves are a type of electromagnetic radiation with longer wavelengths and lower frequencies compared to visible light. They have frequencies ranging from a few kilohertz to hundreds of gigahertz, and wavelengths ranging from several kilometers to a few millimeters. Radio waves are commonly used for communication and broadcasting, including radio and television transmissions, cellular communication, Wi-Fi, and radar.
In summary, electromagnetic waves encompass the entire spectrum of energy waves, while light refers specifically to the visible portion of the spectrum. Radio waves are a subset of electromagnetic waves with longer wavelengths and lower frequencies, commonly used for various forms of communication and radar systems.