Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

Which type of radiation has the highest frequency on the electromagnetic spectrum?

1. Ultraviolet rays

2. X-rays

3. Microwaves

4. Radio waves

The correct answer is: X-rays

X-rays have the highest frequency on the electromagnetic spectrum among the given options. The electromagnetic spectrum is categorized based on the wavelength and frequency of electromagnetic radiation, with frequency being inversely related to wavelength; as frequency increases, wavelength decreases. X-rays are found in a region of the spectrum that includes high-energy radiation, which is characterized by a high frequency and short wavelength. They possess more energy than ultraviolet rays, making them capable of penetrating various materials, including biological tissues. Ultraviolet rays have a lower frequency than X-rays, while microwaves and radio waves have even lower frequencies and longer wavelengths. This progressive decrease in frequency from X-rays to microwaves and then to radio waves illustrates the hierarchy of electromagnetic radiation types, with X-rays being positioned at the higher frequency end of the spectrum.