Electromagnetic radiation

Definition

Electromagnetic radiation is a form of energy that travels through space as oscillating electric and magnetic fields. It includes a wide range of wavelengths, from gamma rays to radio waves.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Electromagnetic radiation exhibits both wave-like and particle-like properties, known as wave-particle duality.
2. The speed of electromagnetic radiation in a vacuum is approximately $3 \times 10^8$ meters per second (the speed of light).
3. The energy of electromagnetic radiation is quantized and can be described by the equation $E = h \nu$, where $E$ is energy, $h$ is Planck's constant, and $\nu$ is frequency.
4. Different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum are characterized by their wavelengths or frequencies, such as visible light, ultraviolet light, and infrared radiation.
5. Electromagnetic radiation plays a crucial role in electronic transitions within atoms, which influences the emission and absorption spectra.

Review Questions

• What properties does electromagnetic radiation exhibit according to the wave-particle duality concept?
• How is the energy of electromagnetic radiation related to its frequency?
• Why is electromagnetic radiation important for understanding electronic transitions in atoms?

Related terms

Photon: A quantum of electromagnetic radiation that carries energy proportional to its frequency.

Wavelength: The distance between successive crests or troughs in a wave; inversely related to frequency.

Frequency: The number of oscillations or cycles per unit time; measured in Hertz (Hz).