What term describes the range of wavelengths or frequencies over which electromagnetic radiation extends?

The term that describes the range of wavelengths or frequencies over which electromagnetic radiation extends is the electromagnetic spectrum. This spectrum encompasses all forms of electromagnetic radiation, from radio waves with the longest wavelengths to gamma rays with the shortest wavelengths. It includes various types of waves, such as microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays, all of which play significant roles in different scientific and practical applications. The electromagnetic spectrum is fundamental in fields like physics, astronomy, telecommunications, and medicine, providing a framework for understanding and utilizing these various forms of radiation effectively.

In contrast, the frequency spectrum typically refers to a more generalized range of frequencies, often without the comprehensive scope of all electromagnetic phenomena. The light spectrum is narrower, focusing mainly on the visible light range that the human eye can detect. Wave spectrum could be seen as an overly vague term, as it does not specifically denote the varied characteristics of electromagnetic radiation and can apply to other types of waves as well.