Which of the following electromagnetic waves has the longest wavelength?

  • A. Gamma rays
  • B. X rays
  • C. Visible light
  • D. Radio waves

Explanation

The spectrum runs from radio waves at the long wavelength, low frequency, low energy end through microwaves, infrared, visible light and ultraviolet to X rays and gamma rays at the other extreme. Since all travel at the same speed, the longest wavelength necessarily has the lowest frequency. Photon energy is proportional to frequency, which is why gamma rays are the most damaging.

Related questions