Final answer:
The visible spectrum is the part of the electromagnetic spectrum visible to the human eye, with wavelengths from 380 to 740 nm. Wavelength is the distance between successive peaks of a wave and determines the color seen. The wavelengths decrease from red to violet, shifting to higher frequencies and energies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding the Visible Spectrum and Electromagnetic Radiation
The visible spectrum refers to the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is visible to the human eye. This ranges from wavelengths of approximately 380 to 740 nanometers (nm).
A wavelength is the distance between successive peaks (or troths) in a wave. In terms of color, the visible spectrum includes all hues from red to violet, with red having the longest wavelength and violet the shortest.
Wavelength and Color
As the wavelength decreases, we move from red toward violet in the spectrum, corresponding to an increase in frequency. Therefore, red light has a longer wavelength and lower frequency compared to violet light, which has a shorter wavelength and higher frequency.
Defining Infrared (IR)
Infrared (IR) radiation lies just outside the visible spectrum, beyond the red end. It has longer wavelengths than visible light and is generally associated with heat radiation.
Explaining Microwaves
Microwaves are a type of electromagnetic radiation with longer wavelengths than infrared light. They are commonly used in various technologies, including microwave ovens and wireless communications.
Short Wavelength Range
The short wavelength range of the electromagnetic spectrum includes gamma rays and X-rays, which have the shortest wavelengths and consequently high frequencies and energies.