Infrared Waves

Infrared (IR) waves have the next shortest wavelength after microwaves and greater frequency and energy.

Infrared waves are used in remote controls.  Night vision cameras and goggles detect infrared given off by warm blooded organisms so you can detect them.

Visible Light Waves

Visible light has the next shortest wavelength after Infrared and a greater frequency and energy.

Your eyes can only see the visible light spectrum of electromagnetic waves. 

Amplitude of light waves = Brightness of light

Frequency = colour!

Ultraviolet (UV) waves have the next shortest wavelength after visible light and a higher frequency and energy.With more energy these waves become a dangerous as they can penetrate at the molecular level including our skin. UV waves are considered a mutagen that can alter DNA and increase the risk of cancer.

Energy from the sun includes UV rays.   Tanning beds and sterilising devices also use UV rays. 

Gamma rays have the shortest wavelength, the highest frequency and highest energy of all electromagnetic waves.

Gamma rays are mostly produced in nuclear reactions. Gamma rays are the most penetrating due the there excessive frequency and energy.  Newly developing cells are often destroyed by gamma rays.  Cancer occurs when cells lose their ability to stop dividing. Radiation therapy is used as medical treatment to kill newer cancer cells.

X-rays have the next shortest wavelength after visible light and higher frequency and energy.

X-rays have additional penetrating power and are more dangerous.

An X-ray machine uses X-ray waves to penetrate through an object.  They are used in medicine, dentistry and for security (in airports for example).