Which of the following wavelengths of light passes easily through the Earth's atmosphere?

• A. Ultraviolet light (100 nm – 400 nm)
• B. Visible light (400 nm – 700 nm)
• C. X-rays (0.01 nm – 10 nm)
• D. Gamma rays (< 0.01 nm)

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the Earth's atmosphere acts as a filter for electromagnetic radiation, allowing some wavelengths to pass through while blocking others.
2. Recall the electromagnetic spectrum ranges: Ultraviolet light (100 nm – 400 nm), Visible light (400 nm – 700 nm), X-rays (0.01 nm – 10 nm), and Gamma rays (< 0.01 nm).
3. Recognize that shorter wavelengths like X-rays and Gamma rays have high energy and are mostly absorbed by the atmosphere, preventing them from reaching the surface.
4. Note that Ultraviolet light is partially absorbed by the ozone layer in the atmosphere, so only some UV light reaches the Earth's surface.
5. Identify that Visible light (400 nm – 700 nm) passes through the atmosphere with minimal absorption, which is why it is the range of light we can see and why it is the correct answer.