Question

What wavelength of the electromagnetic spectrum should I use to examine the surface of a planet which is completely covered by a thick layer of clouds all the time?

a) Infrared
b) Ultraviolet
c) X-rays
d) Radio waves

Answer 1

To examine a planet covered by clouds, radio waves are used because their longer wavelengths can penetrate cloud cover. They fall on the low-frequency side of the visible light spectrum.

Step-by-step explanation:

To examine the surface of a planet that is completely covered by a thick layer of clouds, you should use wavelengths that can penetrate the cloud cover. In such a case, radio waves would be the most effective part of the electromagnetic spectrum

Using radio waves is advantageous because they have longer wavelengths that are not easily absorbed or scattered by atmospheric particles or clouds, allowing them to reach and penetrate the planet's surface. This is why radio waves fall on the low-frequency side of the visible light spectrum and can be used to detect information through a planetary atmosphere that blocks other types of electromagnetic radiation.