There are several examples where we observe a significant difference in wavelengths between different types of electromagnetic radiation. Here are a few notable examples:
Microwave vs. Optical Radiation: Microwaves have relatively long wavelengths, typically ranging from about 1 millimeter to 1 meter. They are commonly used for communication, as in microwave ovens or satellite transmissions. In contrast, optical radiation, which includes visible light, has much shorter wavelengths. The visible light spectrum spans approximately 400 to 700 nanometers (0.4 to 0.7 micrometers). This difference in wavelengths is what allows us to distinguish between microwave and optical radiation in terms of their applications and interactions with matter.
Radio Waves vs. X-Rays/Gamma Rays: Radio waves, which include signals used for broadcasting and communication, have wavelengths ranging from about 1 meter to several kilometers or more. They are characterized by their long wavelengths and low frequencies. On the other hand, X-rays and gamma rays have extremely short wavelengths and high frequencies. X-rays have wavelengths on the order of 0.01 to 10 nanometers, while gamma rays have even shorter wavelengths below 0.01 nanometers. X-rays are commonly used in medical imaging, while gamma rays are associated with radioactive decay and nuclear processes.
Infrared vs. Ultraviolet Radiation: Infrared (IR) radiation and ultraviolet (UV) radiation lie on opposite sides of the visible light spectrum. Infrared radiation has longer wavelengths than visible light, typically ranging from about 700 nanometers to 1 millimeter. It is often used in thermal imaging, remote sensing, and communication. On the other hand, ultraviolet radiation has shorter wavelengths than visible light, ranging from about 10 to 400 nanometers. It is responsible for effects like sunburn and plays a crucial role in applications such as sterilization, fluorescence, and UV spectroscopy.
These examples highlight the wide range of wavelengths within the electromagnetic spectrum and how they correspond to different types of electromagnetic radiation. Each region of the spectrum exhibits unique properties, interactions, and applications based on their wavelength characteristics.