What are electromagnetic waves and how was it discovered that light is made of them? How were all the electromagnetic waves (like radio waves) that we can't even see discovered? And how do these electromagnetic waves affect our lives? In this exceptional program, science teacher Spiro Liacos introduces students to waves in general, and then takes a detailed and entertaining look at radio waves, microwaves, infrared light, visible light, ultraviolet light, X-rays, and gamma rays. Along the way he surfs, plays guitar and piano, flies a remote controlled helicopter, dives into the ocean, visits the dentist, and spends some time in the tropical sun. This program is a great way to teach students all about electromagnetic waves.

Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on February 13, 2014. Link to website with Teacher's notes and Question Sheet for students available under Additional info tag.

Introduction: Shedding Light on Electromagnetic Waves (0:37) -- The Discovery of Electromagnetic Waves (2:54) -- Invisible Waves (1:48) -- Radio Transmission (2:00) -- Types of Mechanical Waves (2:59) -- Measuring Waves (2:23) -- Frequency (1:58) -- Wave Speed (2:14) -- Traveling Waves (1:51) -- Wave Equation (1:45) -- Scientific Notation (1:49) -- Radio Waves and Microwaves (2:01) -- Carrier Waves (2:57) -- Examples of Waves (2:54) -- Infrared Waves (2:42) -- Thermal Imaging (2:31) -- Infrared Light Camera (1:54) -- Visible Light (2:29) -- Blue Sky (1:42) -- Ultraviolet Light (2:19) -- UV Rays (2:47) -- X-rays (2:40) -- X-ray machines (2:07) -- Gamma Rays (3:05) -- Credits: Shedding Light on Electromagnetic Waves (0:43).