AFOQT Practice Test

Which type of wave in the electromagnetic spectrum possesses the lowest frequency?

1. Infrared waves

2. Microwaves

3. X-rays

4. Gamma rays

The correct answer is: Microwaves

The type of wave in the electromagnetic spectrum that possesses the lowest frequency is infrared waves. Infrared waves have frequencies that are lower than those of microwaves, which means they oscillate at a slower rate. This characteristic defines their place in the electromagnetic spectrum, where frequencies decrease from gamma rays, which have very high frequencies, down through X-rays, microwaves, and into infrared wavelengths. While microwaves are higher in frequency than infrared waves, they still remain more energetic than infrared radiation. Conversely, X-rays and gamma rays occupy positions much further along the spectrum with higher frequencies and greater energy, making them unsuitable for the answer since they surpass infrared waves in frequency. Understanding the hierarchy of electromagnetic waves by their frequencies helps clarify their properties and applications in various technologies.