Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Electromagnetic radiation refers to the energy carried by electromagnetic waves. It includes various forms such as radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays.
Related terms
Radio Waves: A type of low-frequency electromagnetic radiation commonly used for communication purposes.
Ultraviolet Radiation: A higher-energy form of electromagnetic radiation that is responsible for sunburns and can cause damage to living cells.
X-rays: High-energy electromagnetic radiation commonly used in medical imaging to visualize bones and internal structures.