# Electromagnetic waves transfer energy from a source to an absorber. Describe the properties that all electromagnetic waves share, and explain how infrared radiation and X-rays differ in their uses and hazards to the human body.

> Eduqas A-Level Physics — 6.2 Particle physics and the standard model (A-Level only) · Describe and Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. All electromagnetic waves are transverse waves
2. All electromagnetic waves travel at the same speed in a vacuum (3 × 10⁸ m/s)
3. Infrared radiation is used for cooking food, thermal imaging or short-range communications (any one valid use)
4. Infrared radiation can cause skin burns (hazard to human body)
5. X-rays are used for medical imaging or security scanners AND can cause cell damage or mutations

## Key terms

- [electromagnetic waves](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/electromagnetic-waves)
- [infrared radiation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/infrared-radiation)
- [X-rays](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/x-rays)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas A-Level Physics](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/electromagnetic-waves-transfer-energy-from-a-247f9361) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.