• As frequency of an electromagnetic wave increases the energy of that wave increases. (And so does the ionising power (energy))
  • Beyond the visible light spectrum, the energy increases to an extent that it has the ability to ionise atoms
• Electromagnetic waves become more dangerous as their wavelength shortens also

(Ionising energy - The energy required to convert an atom into an ion by removing of adding electrons)

• Due to the Electromagnetic waves property of ionisation, it makes them harmful. They have harmful effects on the human body.
  • They damage cells leading to mutations. (Example: UV waves can cause cancer)
  • ultraviolet waves, X-rays and gamma are harmful because of their ability of ionisation