The wavelength of light used to observe an object must be __ than the object itself. A) smaller C) of lower energy B) of higher energy D) larger
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is A) smaller.
To observe an object clearly using light, the wavelength of the light must be smaller than the object itself. This is because of the principles of diffraction and resolution. Diffraction occurs when waves encounter an obstacle or opening, and they spread out. If the wavelength of light is too large relative to the object being observed, the wave will not be able to diffract effectively around or through it, resulting in poor resolution.
When light has a smaller wavelength, it can interact with the fine details of the object, allowing for greater resolution and clearer imaging. This is why techniques like electron microscopy, which uses electron waves with much smaller wavelengths than visible light, are used to observe structures at the microscopic and nanoscopic scale. The shorter the wavelength of light, the more detail can be observed in smaller objects.
In contrast, light with a longer wavelength (like red or infrared light) can only resolve larger features and is less effective for examining small details or objects. The relationship between wavelength and the ability to observe objects is governed by the diffraction limit, which states that the smallest detail that can be resolved is approximately half the wavelength of the light being used.
In summary, to observe an object clearly, the wavelength of light must be smaller than the object because this allows the light to interact with finer details, providing better resolution.