Light is electromagnetic radiation that can be detected by the human eye. Electromagnetic radiation occurs over an extremely wide range of wavelengths, from gamma rays with wavelengths less than about 1 ร— 10 โˆ’11 metres to radio waves measured in metres. The study of light and its interaction with matter is termed optics.

Understanding the Context

The observation and study of optical phenomena such as rainbows and the aurora borealis offer many clues about the nature of light as well as much enjoyment. Simply stated, light is nature's way of transferring energy through space. We can complicate it by talking about interacting electric and magnetic fields, quantum mechanics, and all of that, but just remember-- light is energy. Light travels very rapidly, but it does have a finite velocity.

Key Insights