Which of the following EM waves travel the fastest through a vacuum? Choose all that apply. X-rays Low-Frequency EM Waves Ultraviolet Blue Light ? Gamma Rays Viewing Saved Work Revert to Last Response
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Based on the principles of physics, the correct answer is that all of the listed options travel at the same speed in a vacuum.
Correct Answer:
- X-rays
- Low-Frequency EM Waves
- Ultraviolet
- Blue Light
- Gamma Rays
Explanation
A fundamental principle of modern physics is that all electromagnetic (EM) waves travel at the exact same speed when in a vacuum, regardless of their frequency, wavelength, or energy. This universal speed limit is known as the speed of light, commonly denoted by the symbol ‘c’. The value of ‘c’ is approximately 299,792,458 meters per second (about 186,282 miles per second).
The options provided in the question, including X-rays, low-frequency EM waves, ultraviolet radiation, blue light, and gamma rays, are all different classifications within the broad electromagnetic spectrum. They are distinguished from one another by their unique wavelengths and frequencies. For instance, gamma rays have extremely high frequencies and short wavelengths, making them very energetic, while low-frequency EM waves, such as radio waves, have low frequencies and long wavelengths.
Despite these significant differences, their speed in a vacuum remains constant and identical. The question asks which of these waves travel the fastest. Since no single type of EM wave travels faster than any other in a vacuum, they all travel at the same maximum speed ‘c’. Therefore, every option listed is a correct answer because they all share the title of “the fastest.”
It is crucial to emphasize that this rule applies specifically to a vacuum. When electromagnetic waves travel through a material medium like water, glass, or air, their speed decreases. Furthermore, the speed in a medium can vary slightly depending on the wave’s frequency, a phenomenon called dispersion. This is why a prism separates white light into a rainbow. However, in the perfect emptiness of a vacuum, all electromagnetic radiation travels at the constant, unparalleled speed of light.thumb_upthumb_down
