Properties and Types of Light

Study Notes

Light is a form of electromagnetic radiation
Has both wave-like and particle-like properties (dual nature)
Travels at a speed of approximately 299,792,458 meters per second (m/s) in a vacuum
Has a frequency range of 4.3 x 10^14 to 7.5 x 10^14 Hz

Visible Light: Electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength between 400-700 nanometers (nm), perceived by the human eye
- Colours of the visible spectrum:
  - Red: 620-750 nm
  - Orange: 590-620 nm
  - Yellow: 570-590 nm
  - Green: 520-570 nm
  - Blue: 450-520 nm
  - Indigo: 420-450 nm
  - Violet: 400-420 nm
Invisible Light: Electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength outside the visible spectrum
- Ultraviolet (UV) Light: 100-400 nm
- X-Rays: 0.01-10 nm
- Gamma Rays: <0.01 nm
- Infrared (IR) Light: 700-1 mm

Reflection: Bouncing back of light when it hits a surface
Refraction: Bending of light as it passes from one medium to another
Diffraction: Bending of light around a corner or obstacle
Interference: Superposition of light waves, resulting in constructive and destructive patterns
Absorption: Absorption of light by a material, converting it into heat or other forms of energy

Illumination: Lighting for human vision and daily activities
Communication: Fiber optic communication systems, transmitting data through light signals
Medical: Laser surgeries, cancer treatments, and diagnostic tools
Energy: Solar power generation, using sunlight to produce electricity

Light is a form of electromagnetic radiation
Exhibits dual nature, having both wave-like and particle-like properties
Travels at a speed of approximately 299,792,458 meters per second (m/s) in a vacuum
Has a frequency range of 4.3 x 10^14 to 7.5 x 10^14 Hz

Has a wavelength outside the visible spectrum
Includes:
- Ultraviolet (UV) Light: 100-400 nm
- X-Rays: 0.01-10 nm
- Gamma Rays: smallest wavelength, high-energy radiation