How do IR waves differ from light and RF electromagnetic waves?

The correct choice highlights that IR waves differ from light and RF electromagnetic waves primarily based on their wavelength and frequency of oscillation.

Infrared (IR) waves are part of the electromagnetic spectrum, just like visible light and radio frequency (RF) waves. What sets them apart distinctly is their wavelength and frequency, which are inversely related; a longer wavelength corresponds to a lower frequency, while a shorter wavelength corresponds to a higher frequency.

IR waves typically have longer wavelengths than visible light but shorter wavelengths than radio waves, placing them in a specific range of the electromagnetic spectrum. The frequency of IR waves is lower than that of visible light but higher than that of RF waves. This characteristic defines how each type of electromagnetic radiation interacts with matter, contributing to their applications and behaviors.

Understanding these differences is crucial for various fields, ranging from telecommunications to medical imaging, where specific wavelengths are used for targeted outcomes based on their unique properties.