Chapter 13, Problem 1TE

Which waves have the longest wavelength: light waves, X-rays, or radio waves? Which have the highest frequencies?

To determine

The wave that have the longest wavelength and have the highest frequencies.

Answer to Problem 1TE

Radio waves have the longest wavelength and x-rays have the highest frequencies.

Explanation of Solution

According to the wavelength and the frequency, the electromagnetic spectrum can be divided according to the range of their wavelength. As the range of wavelength of the radio waves is $0.1\text{m}$-${10}^8\text{m}$, the range of wavelength of the x-rays is ${10}^{-11}\text{m}$-${10}^{-8}\text{m}$, and the frequency of the electromagnetic waves and their wavelength are inversely related to each other.

he longest wavelength means the less frequency, so the x-rays have the highest frequency and the shortest wavelength.

Conclusion:

Therefore, radio waves have the longest wavelength and x-rays have the highest frequencies.