Visible Light
Visible light is a form of electromagnetic radiation that is visible to the human eye. It is a small part of the electromagnetic spectrum and is essential for our ability to see the world around us.
Characteristics of Visible Light
Visible light is a form of energy that behaves like a wave and a particle. It has the following characteristics:
- Wavelength: Visible light has wavelengths ranging from approximately 400 to 700 nanometers (nm). Different wavelengths correspond to different colors of light, with shorter wavelengths appearing as violet and longer wavelengths appearing as red.
- Colors: The colors of visible light, in order of increasing wavelength, are violet, blue, green, yellow, orange, and red.
- Speed: In a vacuum, visible light travels at a speed of approximately 299,792 kilometers per second (about 186,282 miles per second).
- Refraction and Reflection: Visible light can be refracted (bent) and reflected when it passes through different mediums or encounters different surfaces.
Uses of Visible Light
Visible light has numerous practical applications, including:
- Seeing: The most obvious use of visible light is for vision. It allows us to perceive the colors, shapes, and distances of objects in our environment.
- Art and Design: Artists and designers use visible light to create and appreciate the colors and visual effects in their work.
- Photography: Cameras and photography equipment rely on visible light to capture images.
- Optical Technologies: Visible light is fundamental to the function of optical devices such as microscopes, telescopes, and laser technology.
Study Guide
Here are some key points to remember about visible light:
- What is the range of wavelengths for visible light?
- How does the speed of visible light compare to the speed of sound?
- What are the colors of visible light, in order of increasing wavelength?
- Give an example of a practical application of visible light in everyday life.
- Explain how visible light can be refracted or reflected.
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