Outside the Electromagnetic Spectrum

In summary, EM radiation cannot exist outside of the EM spectrum as it encompasses all frequencies of radiation. Objects cannot absorb or release energy at frequencies below or above the EM spectrum. This is not due to a physical law, but rather a technicality of the EM spectrum's range being from 0 to infinity.
  • #1
arjose
17
0
Is it possible for EM radiation to exist outside the EM spectrum? I'm aware of the different frequencies at which energy can be radiated eg. radio, infrared, and gamma. But is it possible for objects to absorb or release energy at subradio or supergamma frequencies? Or is there a physical law that prohibits these phenomena?

Any feedback would be appreciated.
 
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  • #2
The EM spectrum encompasses all EM radiation, so by definition you cannot have EM radiation outside the EM spectrum.
 
  • #3
Vanadium 50 said:
The EM spectrum encompasses all EM radiation, so by definition you cannot have EM radiation outside the EM spectrum.

Is there a physical law that creates this limitation or is it just a matter of technicality, where lower or higher frequencies are no longer defined as having electromagnetic nature? I'm just wondering whether those extremes fall into quantum energies or with dark energies.
 
  • #4
arjose said:
Is there a physical law that creates this limitation or is it just a matter of technicality, where lower or higher frequencies are no longer defined as having electromagnetic nature?
No, it is just that there is no such thing as lower or higher frequencies. The EM spectrum goes from 0 to infinity, there is no frequency lower than 0 and no frequency higher than infinity.
 
  • #5
DaleSpam said:
No, it is just that there is no such thing as lower or higher frequencies. The EM spectrum goes from 0 to infinity, there is no frequency lower than 0 and no frequency higher than infinity.

Thanks. That clears it up.
 

What is the electromagnetic spectrum?

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all types of electromagnetic radiation. It includes all types of light, from radio waves to gamma rays, and is organized by wavelength and frequency.

What is meant by "outside the electromagnetic spectrum"?

"Outside the electromagnetic spectrum" refers to any type of electromagnetic radiation that falls outside of the range of wavelengths and frequencies that we can detect with our senses or current technology.

Can we see or interact with anything outside the electromagnetic spectrum?

No, we cannot see or interact with anything outside the electromagnetic spectrum with our current technology. However, scientists are constantly researching and developing new technologies to expand our understanding and detection capabilities.

What are some examples of electromagnetic radiation that fall outside the spectrum?

Some examples of electromagnetic radiation that fall outside the spectrum include cosmic rays, x-rays, and ultraviolet radiation. These types of radiation have shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies than visible light.

Why is it important to study and understand the electromagnetic spectrum?

Studying and understanding the electromagnetic spectrum is important because it allows us to better understand the physical world around us. It also has numerous practical applications, such as in medical imaging, telecommunications, and astronomy.

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