The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses a wide range of frequencies, extending from extremely low frequencies to extremely high frequencies. The highest and lowest frequencies within the electromagnetic spectrum are as follows:
Highest Frequency: Gamma Rays Gamma rays have the highest frequencies in the electromagnetic spectrum. They have wavelengths shorter than 0.01 nanometers (nm) or frequencies higher than 30 exahertz (30 × 10^18 Hz). Gamma rays are typically produced in nuclear reactions, radioactive decay processes, and high-energy particle interactions.
Lowest Frequency: Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) Waves Extremely Low Frequency waves have the lowest frequencies in the electromagnetic spectrum. They have wavelengths longer than thousands of kilometers or frequencies lower than 3 kilohertz (3 kHz). ELF waves are used for various purposes, such as communication with submarines underwater or studying the Earth's ionosphere.
It's important to note that the electromagnetic spectrum spans a vast range of frequencies and includes several other types of waves, each with its own characteristics, applications, and frequencies. Going from highest to lowest frequencies, the electromagnetic spectrum is generally categorized as follows:
Gamma Rays → X-Rays → Ultraviolet (UV) Rays → Visible Light → Infrared (IR) Radiation → Microwaves → Radio Waves → ELF Waves
Each region of the spectrum has its own unique properties and applications, ranging from the high-energy gamma rays used in medical imaging to the longer-wavelength radio waves used for communication and broadcasting.