The wave that has the highest frequency and penetrating power is
Correct answer: C. Gamma rays
- A. X-rays
- B. Ultraviolet rays
- C. Gamma rays
- D. Microwaves
Explanation
Gamma rays sit at the extreme short wavelength end of the electromagnetic spectrum, so they carry the highest frequency and photon energy and need several centimetres of lead to attenuate them. X rays are next and overlap gamma rays in energy, the difference being origin: gamma from the nucleus, X rays from electron transitions or deceleration. Microwaves are at the low energy end.
This question appeared on the UHS MDCAT 2025 paper, which you can sit online with every answer explained.
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About Electromagnetic Waves
Electromagnetic waves consist of mutually perpendicular, oscillating electric and magnetic fields that also remain perpendicular to the direction of propagation. They travel through vacuum at the speed of light and include radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible, ultraviolet, X-rays and gamma rays. Unlike mechanical waves, they do not require a material medium.
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