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The electromagnetic spectrum covers a wide range of wavelengths and photon
energies. Light used to "see" an object must have a wavelength about the
same size as or smaller than the object. The Advanced Light Source (ALS) generates light in the far ultraviolet and soft x-ray regions, which span the wavelengths suited
to studying molecules and atoms.
Look at the picture of the electromagnetic spectrum. See if you can
find answers to these questions:
- What kind of electromagnetic radiation has the shortest wavelength?
The longest?
- What kind of electromagnetic radiation could be used to "see" molecules?
A cold virus?
- Why can't you use visible light to "see" molecules?
- Some insects, like bees, can see light of shorter wavelengths than
humans can see. What kind of radiation do you think a bee sees?
- What is the speed of the light?
- What was the first use of electromagnetic waves?
Link for help:
Electromagnetic waves
Links to science resources:
IMSEnet
Teachers, Science Junction
The Science House
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