Light and the electromagnetic spectrum Study Guide

Excessive exposure to various types of electromagnetic (EM) radiation can have detrimental effects on human health, with the severity and specific type of harm depending on the radiation's frequency and energy. Different parts of the EM spectrum interact with the body in distinct ways, leading to a range of issues from superficial burns to cellular damage and genetic mutations. It's crucial to understand these risks to promote safety and minimise exposure wherever possible.

Changes within atoms and atomic nuclei are fundamental processes in physics that can both generate and be caused by electromagnetic radiation. When electrons within an atom move from a higher energy level to a lower one, or when atomic nuclei undergo decay or fusion, they emit energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation. This radiation can span a broad spectrum of frequencies, including visible light, X-rays, and gamma rays, depending on the energy involved in the transition. Conversely, atoms and nuclei can absorb electromagnetic radiation. When an atom absorbs a photon with sufficient energy, an electron can jump to a higher energy level. When a nucleus absorbs a high-energy photon or particle, it can become unstable, potentially leading to nuclear reactions or changes in its state.