An electromagnetic-spectrum diagram can compare radiation types by wavelength, frequency, and object-size scale. In the illustrated scale, wavelength increases from gamma rays at $${}10^{-12}$$ meters through X-rays at $${}10^{-10}$$ meters, ultraviolet at $${}10^{-8}$$ meters, visible light at $${}0.5 \times 10^{-6}$$ meters, infrared at $${}10^{-5}$$ meters, microwaves at $${}10^{-2}$$ meters, and radio waves at $${}10^3$$ meters. Across the same scale, the frequency labels decrease from $${}10^{20}$$ to $${}10^4$$ hertz, and the size comparison ranges from atomic nuclei to buildings.

Visual Representation of the Electromagnetic Spectrum

Some species can detect portions of the electromagnetic spectrum outside the human visible range. For example, honeybees can see ultraviolet light, and some snakes can detect infrared radiation in addition to typical visual light cues.

Nonhuman Detection of the Electromagnetic Spectrum

In human vision, the physical properties of a light wave directly determine our perceptual experience. The wavelength and its associated frequency dictate the perceived color or hue of the light. Meanwhile, the amplitude determines the perceived intensity or brightness of that light.

Relationship Between Physical Properties of Light and Visual Perception

The electromagnetic spectrum is the complete range of electromagnetic radiation in the environment, organized by wavelength and frequency. It includes gamma rays, X-rays, ultraviolet light, visible light (which occupies a relatively small range of frequencies between infrared and ultraviolet), infrared light, microwaves, and radio waves.

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Visual and auditory stimuli occur as waves. 

Waves in Sensation and Perception within Psychology

Electromagnetic radiation (EMR) is a type of energy that exists all around us and is delivered as elementary particles called photons. Its different forms, such as visible light, microwaves, X-rays, and radio waves, are classified on the electromagnetic spectrum and are defined in terms of their wavelength and frequency.

Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR)

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

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Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

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Visual stimuli (light) and auditory stimuli (sound) are both transmitted as wave forms. These waves are defined by specific physical characteristics, most notably their amplitude, wavelength, and timbre.

Physical Characteristics of Waves in Sensation and Perception

The two types of waves for perception are: 

1. Light Waves (Visual Stimuli) 
2. Sound Waves (Auditory Waves) 

Types of Waves

Classification of the Electromagnetic Spectrum

A researcher is comparing the physical nature of the stimuli responsible for the senses of sight and hearing. What is the most fundamental characteristic that the physical stimuli for *both* of these senses share, which distinguishes them from the stimulus for the sense of touch?

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