What kind of electromagnetic waves have shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies than visible light?

Study for the NCEA Level 3 Waves Test. Prepare with interactive flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and detailed explanations. Equip yourself for success!

Ultraviolet waves have shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies than visible light, placing them within the electromagnetic spectrum just above the visible range. The visible light spectrum spans wavelengths from approximately 380 to 750 nanometers, while ultraviolet waves range from about 10 to 400 nanometers. Because of their shorter wavelengths, ultraviolet waves carry more energy compared to visible light, which is why they can cause effects such as sunburn. Their higher frequency also enables them to be used in various applications, including sterilization and fluorescence.

In contrast, radio waves, infrared waves, and microwaves all have longer wavelengths and lower frequencies compared to visible light, making them distinctly different from ultraviolet waves in terms of their position within the electromagnetic spectrum.

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