Longer wavelengths tend to penetrate better than shorter wavelengths due to their physical properties and interactions with matter. Here are a few reasons why longer wavelengths are capable of better penetration:
Wave-Particle Interactions: Electromagnetic waves, including light, exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties. When longer wavelength waves interact with matter, they tend to have lower energy and lower frequencies. This lower energy allows them to travel through substances with less absorption and scattering. On the other hand, shorter wavelengths (higher energy) are more likely to interact with particles in the material, leading to absorption or scattering, which reduces their penetration depth.
Absorption and Scattering: Different materials have specific absorption and scattering properties for electromagnetic waves of different wavelengths. Some materials may absorb or scatter shorter wavelengths more efficiently, causing them to lose energy and be absorbed or redirected before they can penetrate deeper. Longer wavelengths, being lower in energy, are less likely to be absorbed or scattered by many substances, allowing them to propagate further.
Size and Obstacles: The size of obstacles or openings in a material relative to the wavelength can affect penetration. If the size of the obstacles is comparable to or smaller than the wavelength, the waves are more likely to be scattered or absorbed by them. Longer wavelengths have larger spatial extents, allowing them to bypass smaller obstacles or openings, thus penetrating more effectively.
Wave Interference: Waves can interfere constructively or destructively depending on their relative phases. In some cases, longer wavelengths may experience constructive interference, which reinforces their propagation through a material. This can enhance their ability to penetrate compared to shorter wavelengths.
It's important to note that the penetration depth of electromagnetic waves depends on various factors, including the properties of the material, the specific wavelength range, and the interaction mechanisms involved. Different materials and situations can exhibit different penetration characteristics, and these explanations provide a general understanding of why longer wavelengths tend to penetrate better.