The frequency spectrum tracks and classifies electromagnetic waves emitted by anything that emits energy at a particular frequency, including light, sound, radio, and X-rays. Frequencies are measured in hertz and are important for understanding how waves interact with matter, determining safety levels, and identifying interference in broadcasting. The electromagnetic spectrum ranges from radio waves to gamma rays and is regulated by various authorities. Different frequencies are responsible for color perception in light and sound quality.
A frequency spectrum is a scientific method of tracking and classifying electromagnetic waves as they occur in space and the everyday environment. In reality calculating the frequency of various broadcasts can be a complex science and usually involves intensive measurement tools and formulas. As a concept, however, spectrum itself is relatively simple. Anything that emits energy does so at a particular frequency. Light, sound, television and radio transmissions are among the most common; Also included are X-rays, microwaves, and infrared signals. The frequency spectrum is how these and other emissions are tracked and classified, and the discrete and unique elements of each are usually represented by the amount of radiated energy each produces per second.
Understanding frequency in general
Frequency is generally defined as the number of complete cycles of electromagnetic energy waves that occur each second. The international unit of measurement used to describe a cycle is 1 hertz (Hz). Since each portion of the electromagnetic spectrum has a telltale frequency signature, it can be identified by a spectrum analyzer capable of accurately measuring the wave cycles per second of the particular electromagnetic phenomenon under observation.
These numbers are really important for a couple of different reasons. Physicists often spend a lot of time tracing the spectrum of different frequencies to understand how these waves interact with matter, as well as determining things like the outermost limits for sound and light waves. They are also important for health reasons; researchers need to know what levels of things like x-rays and microwave technology are safe for use in homes and doctor’s offices. In broadcasting, the spectrum identifies which frequencies are the most populated, and therefore the most prone to interference and transmission difficulties.
Tracing electromagnetic energy
Each of the various forms of electromagnetic energy occupies a designated place in the spectrum. The electromagnetic continuum, expressed in terms of the frequency or intensity of radiation emitted by each distinct segment, runs from 106 Hz to 1025 Hz. Radio waves occupy the low end of the spectrum while radioactive gamma rays occupy the high end. The range of frequencies enclosed by the electromagnetic spectrum is immense. The frequencies generated by radio transmissions and those produced by visible light vary by an order of magnitude of a million billion.
Light and sound
When it comes to light and sound, the levels of frequencies emitted are largely responsible for how humans perceive color or transmitted sound. For light to appear as a distinct color, it must emit energy within the electromagnetic range associated with that color. One of the easiest ways to demonstrate this is with a prism or other beveled crystal. In sunlight, solar energy is transmitted differently through different refractions, resulting in them appearing to glow different colors. In truth light is the same no matter how it appears, but refraction changes electromagnetic energy, leading to color.
Sound waves work in a similar way. Different musical notes can harness different energies, which can make them appear to have different qualities to those within hearing range. Artists often exploit this to spice up acoustic compilations. The intentional blending of sounds across the spectrum is often known as “white noise,” a technique sometimes employed to promote better sleep.
Special considerations for broadcasters
The frequency spectrum for radio, television, and other broadcasts is further classified into ranges of frequencies, or “bands,” either as a means to minimize interference or to share bandwidth among multiple users. Most of these are regulated by various authorities. For example, the International Telecommunication Union agreement allocates certain ranges of radio transmission frequencies to minimize interference in the shortwave radio spectrum. The high frequency bands are allocated between international shortwave broadcasting, amateur radio and marine radio communications.
In order to ensure reliable and interference-free radio transmissions, national government agencies often regulate certain aspects or parts of the spectrum. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) allocates frequency bands between businesses, the general public, and amateur radio operators in a way that limits any potential cross-band interference. Each band is designated to a specific frequency range, and that frequency spectrum is reserved for each of several specific user groups.
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