The theory of electromagnetism was put forward by James C. Maxwell around 1865.
The elecromagnetic spectrum includes all forms of radiation, one of which is visible light -- the radiation to which our eyes are sensitive.
Gamma-rays, X-rays, ultaviolet, infrared and radio waves are also forms of radiation. We divide the spectrum up according to the wavelength of the radiation.
The energy associated with an electromagnetic wave varies according to its wavelength.
Short wavelength radiation carries lots of energy, whereas long wavelengths radiation has less.
|
|
| [back to beginning of topic] | [next page in this topic] |
|
|
| [back to the topics page] | [back to astro 201 home page] |