As you ascend the electromagnetic spectrum, which type of wave increases in frequency?

Study for the IGCSE Physics Exam. Engage with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations, and prepare thoroughly for your assessment.

As you move up the electromagnetic spectrum, the frequency of waves increases progressively from radio waves through to gamma rays. Gamma rays are at the high-frequency end of the spectrum, characterized by their extremely short wavelengths and high energy. This means that they have a much greater frequency than the other types of waves listed, such as radio waves, microwaves, or infrared radiation, which are at the lower frequency end.

In the context of the electromagnetic spectrum, frequency and wavelength are inversely related; as frequency increases, wavelength decreases. Gamma rays, therefore, have the shortest wavelengths and highest frequencies compared to the others, making them the correct choice in this context. Understanding this relationship is crucial for grasping the nature of electromagnetic radiation and its applications in various fields, including medicine, communication, and astronomy.

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