Description: Microwave radiation is the region of the electromagnetic spectrum with wavelengths of approximately 1 millimeter to 1 meter. This is the shortest wavelength end of the spectrum of radio waves. Compared to visible light, microwaves have long wavelengths which means that they carry less energy per photon and thus cannot produce ionization. Microwave's long wavelengths mean they are unhindered by dust, allowing objects embedded in dusty environments to be studied.

Related Terms:

• Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB)
• Electromagnetic Radiation
• Radio Waves

Term and definition status: This term and its definition have been approved by a research astronomer and a teacher

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