Question

from lowest to highest energy, which of the following shows the correct order for waves on the electromagnetic spectrum? a visible, infrared, x - rays, ultraviolet, gamma rays, radio b infrared, radio, visible, ultraviolet, x - rays, gamma rays c gamma rays, x - rays, ultraviolet, visible, infrared, radio d radio, infrared, visible, ultraviolet, x - rays, gamma rays

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the energy formula

The energy of a photon is given by \(E = h
u\), where \(h\) is Planck's constant and \(
u\) is the frequency of the electromagnetic wave.

Step2: Relate frequency and wavelength

Since \(c=
u\lambda\) (where \(c\) is the speed of light), \(
u=\frac{c}{\lambda}\). So \(E = \frac{hc}{\lambda}\). Lower wavelength means higher energy.

Step3: Order the waves by wavelength

Radio waves have the longest wavelength (lowest energy), followed by infrared, then visible light, then ultraviolet, then x - rays, and gamma rays have the shortest wavelength (highest energy). So the order from lowest to highest energy is radio, infrared, visible, ultraviolet, x - rays, gamma rays.

Answer:

D. radio, infrared, visible, ultraviolet, x - rays, gamma rays