Question

Of the types of electromagnetic waves shown, gamma rays, at the far left, have the highest energy. Which statement does this allow the student to make?

1) Gamma rays have the lowest frequency.
2) Gamma rays have the longest wavelength.
3) Gamma rays have the highest frequency.
4) Gamma rays have the shortest wavelength.

Answer 1

Gamma rays, having the highest energy among electromagnetic waves, consequently have the highest frequency and the shortest wavelength.

Step-by-step explanation:

Given that gamma rays are at the far left of the electromagnetic spectrum and have the highest energy of all electromagnetic waves, we can deduce certain characteristics about them. The relationship between energy, frequency, and wavelength for electromagnetic waves is such that higher energy corresponds to higher frequency and shorter wavelength. Therefore, the correct statement about gamma rays, which have the highest energy, is that they have the highest frequency and the shortest wavelength.