K326 / K327 / 2027

Chapter 10

Electromagnetic spectrum

Electromagnetic waves form a spectrum with shared properties and different wavelengths and frequencies.

Start readingRevision summaryRead whole chapter

Spaced review

Remember this chapter

Save this chapter's 3 recall cards. We'll bring each one back just before you're likely to forget it, a few minutes a day.

Free account needed, so your cards follow you to any device. Notes and quick recall stay free without one.

Choose a lesson

  1. Spectrum order and shared properties

    Connect wavelength and frequency, and distinguish electromagnetic signals from sound.

  2. Uses across the spectrum

    Explain how each region is used to transmit, heat, detect or affect materials.

  3. Effects of exposure

    Distinguish heating from ionisation and explain how over-exposure can damage cells and tissue.

Syllabus coverage

This chapter covers Electromagnetic spectrum, topic 10(a-d), in the K326 / K327 syllabus (2027) and 5086 / 5087 (2026).

Use wave properties to explain an application or an exposure effect.

Includes all seven spectrum regions, communication and detection, heating and ionising effects.

View the learning outcomes
10(a)
State that electromagnetic waves are transverse and travel at the same speed in vacuum. Spectrum order and shared properties
10(b)
Order the main spectrum regions by wavelength and frequency. Spectrum order and shared properties
10(c)
State typical uses of radio, microwave, infrared, visible, ultraviolet, X-ray and gamma radiation, including the specified examples. Uses across the spectrum
10(d)
Explain hazardous effects of over-exposure on living cells and tissue, including heating and ionisation. Effects of exposure