which types of waves are absorbed by the atmosphere
The earth is surrounded by layers of gases called the atmosphere. Some wavelengths of electromagnetic waves arriving from space are absorbed by the atmosphere and never reach the surface of our planet. Take a look at the following diagram.The earth's atmosphere absorbs the majority of ultraviolet, X-, and gamma rays, which are all shorter wavelengths than visible light.ortunately, the atmosphere protects life on earth. Long-wavelength radio waves and infrared rays also do not reach the surface. The electromagnetic waves we can generally observe on the ground consist of visible light, which is difficult for the atmosphere to absorb, near-infrared rays, and some electromagnetic waves.
, X-rays X-rays: High frequency electromagnetic radiation, used for medical imaging. , most of the ultraviolet and some of the infrared [infrared radiation: Electromagnetic radiation emitted from a hot object. ] are absorbed by the atmosphere and do not reach the Earthâs surface.ight, some infrared, some ultraviolet ultraviolet radiation: Electromagnetic radiation with a frequency between that of visible light and X-rays. , and microwaves microwaves: Electromagnetic radiation with a frequency between that of visible light and radio waves.