Physics 5054 · O Level · Electromagnetic spectrum

Electromagnetic spectrum — practice question

The microwave region forms one part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Fig. 5.1 shows the electromagnetic spectrum split into the seven main regions. At the left-hand end are gamma rays, and at the right-hand end are radio waves, with wavelength increasing from left to right.
(a)[1]

On Fig. 5.1: mark the microwave region with the letter M; mark the ultraviolet region with the letters UV.

(b(i))[3]

For some satellite television systems, the microwaves used have a frequency of 12 GHz. In a vacuum, microwaves travel at $3.0 \times 10^8\,\text{m/s}$. Calculate the wavelength of these microwaves in a vacuum.

(b(ii))[2]

Describe the way microwaves are used in satellite television systems.

(c)[2]

Every microwave oven has a switch that turns the oven off when the door is opened. Suggest why it is important for a microwave oven to switch off when the door is opened.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: UV placed to the left of M on the electromagnetic spectrum (wavelength increases to the right)

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