Electromagnetic Spectrum Simulation

The Concept

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all types of EM radiation. Radiation is energy that travels and spreads out as it goes. It includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. All these waves travel at the speed of light ($c$) in a vacuum, but they differ in their wavelengths, frequencies, and energy.

The relationship between speed ($c$), frequency ($f$), and wavelength ($\lambda$) is given by: $c = f \lambda$. As wavelength increases, frequency decreases, and vice versa. Higher frequency (shorter wavelength) waves carry more energy.

How to Use the Lab

• Select different regions of the EM spectrum (e.g., Radio, Visible, X-ray) using the buttons.
• Observe the typical wavelength and frequency ranges displayed for each region in the "Band Info" section.
• See common applications and sources for each type of EM wave.
• The visualization will dynamically show a conceptual wave representing the selected band's characteristics (longer wave for lower frequency, shorter for higher frequency).
• The "Energy Level" bar indicates the relative energy of the selected wave.
• The small pulse moving across the top spectrum bar illustrates that all these waves travel at the same speed ($c$) in a vacuum!