What are the differences between the various types of electromagnetic radiation?

Electromagnetic radiation (EM radiation) is a form of energy that propagates through space via electromagnetic waves. It includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays. Each type of EM radiation has a different wavelength, frequency, and energy level.

The main differences between the various types of electromagnetic radiation are their wavelengths and frequencies. Radio waves have the longest wavelengths and lowest frequencies, while gamma rays have the shortest wavelengths and highest frequencies. Visible light is just a small part of the EM spectrum, sandwiched between ultraviolet and infrared radiation.

Another difference between the types of EM radiation is their ability to penetrate different materials. For example, radio waves can penetrate walls and other solid objects, while gamma rays can penetrate most materials, including human tissue. X-rays are commonly used in medical imaging because they can penetrate soft tissue but not dense materials like bones.

Finally, the various types of EM radiation have different effects on living tissue. UV radiation from the sun can cause skin cancer, while X-rays and gamma rays can damage DNA and cause mutations. Visible light has little effect on living tissue, except at very high intensities.