Homework Problem 1.5
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Homework Problem 1.5
Problem 1.5 asks us to arrange the types of photons of electromagnetic radiation in order of increasing energy. I just wanted to confirm that the correct order was microwaves, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, x-rays, and then gamma rays. If this is the correct order, can anyone explain exactly why that is? Any help is appreciated!!
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Re: Homework Problem 1.5
That is the correct order and that is because wavelength is inversely related to energy. So microwaves have the largest wavelength and thus the least energy while gamma rays have the smallest wavelength and therefore the greatest energy. It is important to remember that unlike wavelength, frequency is directly proportional to energy so gamma rays have the highest frequency and microwaves have the smallest frequency. The order of these waves can be seen on the light spectrum where they are organized based on wavelength in case you would ever want to double check your answers or get a general understanding of the order of these different types of waves.
Re: Homework Problem 1.5
Energy = (planck's constant x speed of light)/wavelength
So the larger the wavelength, the greater the denominator and the lower the energy.
So the larger the wavelength, the greater the denominator and the lower the energy.
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