Question

The ultraviolet region of the electromagnetic spectrum extends beyond violet in the visible region. Knowing the relationship between wavelength and frequency, predict how the frequency of ultraviolet radiation compares to that of visible light. Explain how you came to your conclusion.

Answer 1

As discussed in Unit 10 of The Physics Classroom Tutorial, electromagnetic waves are waves that are capable of traveling through a vacuum. Unlike mechanical waves that require a medium in order to transport their energy, electromagnetic waves are capable of transporting energy through the vacuum of outer space. Electromagnetic waves are produced by a vibrating electric charge and as such, they consist of both an electric and a magnetic component. The precise nature of such electromagnetic waves is not discussed in The Physics Classroom Tutorial. Nonetheless, there are a variety of statements that can be made about such waves.