Which one of the following types of radiation has the shortest wavelength?

The electromagnetic spectrum is organized by wavelength and frequency, where wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency [1]. Radio waves possess the longest wavelengths, ranging from centimeters to kilometers [1]. Moving across the spectrum toward higher energy, infrared (IR) radiation has shorter wavelengths than radio waves but longer than visible light [1]. Visible light occupies a narrow band between approximately 400 nm and 700 nm [1]. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation follows visible light, characterized by even shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies [1]. Among the provided options—Radio waves, Visible light, Infrared, and Ultraviolet—Ultraviolet has the shortest wavelength. In the broader spectrum, only X-rays and Gamma rays have shorter wavelengths than UV. Therefore, UV is the correct choice as it represents the highest frequency and shortest wavelength radiation listed.

Sources

1. [1] Physical Geography by PMF IAS, Manjunath Thamminidi, PMF IAS (1st ed.) > Chapter 20: Earths Atmosphere > Explanation: > p. 279