20
QuizMultiple Choice

Lesson 5.2 The Electromagnetic Spectrum

Question 20 • Reed Fall 2026 Physical Science 2nd Semester (7th Hour)

The energy of microwaves is less than the energy of ultraviolet light. Which comparison of the energies of electromagnetic waves is correct?

Answer
A
X-rays have lower energy than gamma rays because X-rays have higher frequencies.
B
X-rays have lower energy than gamma rays because X-rays have shorter wavelengths.
C
Visible light has higher energy than infrared light because visible light has longer wavelengths.
D
Visible light has higher energy than infrared light because visible light has higher frequencies.

Explanation

Energy increases with frequency and decreases with wavelength. Visible light has a higher frequency than infrared light, so visible light has higher energy. Choice D gives the correct comparison and reason; the other choices incorrectly relate energy to frequency or wavelength.

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