Question:

X-rays, gamma rays and microwaves travelling in vacuum have

Updated On: May 30, 2022
  • same velocity and same frequency
  • same wavelengths but different velocities
  • same frequency but different velocities
  • same velocity but different wavelengths
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

In a vacuum, all light travels the same speed irrespective of the wavelength or frequency of the wave. Gamma radiation has a smaller wavelength and larger frequency, radio waves a smaller frequency and larger wavelength.
So, x-rays, gamma rays and microwaves traveling in vacuum have the same velocity but different wavelengths.
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Concepts Used:

Electromagnetic waves

The waves that are produced when an electric field comes into contact with a magnetic field are known as Electromagnetic Waves or EM waves. The constitution of an oscillating magnetic field and electric fields gives rise to electromagnetic waves.

Types of Electromagnetic Waves:

Electromagnetic waves can be grouped according to the direction of disturbance in them and according to the range of their frequency. Recall that a wave transfers energy from one point to another point in space. That means there are two things going on: the disturbance that defines a wave, and the propagation of wave. In this context the waves are grouped into the following two categories:

  • Longitudinal waves: A wave is called a longitudinal wave when the disturbances in the wave are parallel to the direction of propagation of the wave. For example, sound waves are longitudinal waves because the change of pressure occurs parallel to the direction of wave propagation.
  • Transverse waves: A wave is called a transverse wave when the disturbances in the wave are perpendicular (at right angles) to the direction of propagation of the wave.