The Electromagnetic Spectrum & The Rainbow

Key Takeaways

  • The electromagnetic (EM) spectrum refers to the entire range of wavelengths and frequencies of traveling at the speed of light (electromagnetic radiation).
  • The EM spectrum includes a subset called the visible light spectrum, which is the only part visible to the human eye.
  • When prisms refract, reflect, and disperse light waves, a rainbow can be seen.

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all types of electromagnetic radiation. This radiation is defined by photons traveling at the speed of light.

The EM spectrum is commonly defined by seven types of radiation, most of which you experience every day, whether you realize it or not!

seven types of radiation

Down arrow

The visible light spectrum is a subset of the electromagnetic spectrum. This is the only part of the EM Spectrum that humans can actually see with the naked eye. This includes the light from your desk lamp, your phone screen, rainbows, and even this graphic!

light spectrum

The Rainbow Connection

Rainbows are part of the visible light spectrum. They form when the light wave passes through a prism, like a water droplet, and is refracted (or bent) by the prism.

That bent light is then reflected (or bounced off) the surface of that prism again. This splits the spectrum into its various colors [see figure above] and, voilà, produces a band of distinct colors!

Bring the Magic of Rainbows Home

For more information about rainbows, or to find fun and educational tools to discover the wonders of the visible light spectrum for yourself, visit Rainbow Symphony!

Rainbow Symphony is so much more than a sticker store where you can buy rainbow stickers and design custom decals. We have all sorts of other science-based curiosities, including fireworks glasses and rave glasses that transform ordinary light into extraordinary rainbows.

From rainbow window film and suncatchers to solar eclipse glasses and eclipse viewers, we carry fascinating items that awaken a sense of wonder. Explore our collections, and follow our science blog to learn more about light, color, space, and more!

Featured Products

Featured Collections

Back to blog

More Blogs