What Do We Know?
We have observed how IR electromagnetic radiation affects different types of gas molecules. Now, we will explore how the same type of gas molecule interacts with IR radiation, UV radiation, and microwave radiation. Open the Molecular Interactions with Electromagnetic Radiation Learning Tool to see how a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) molecule interacts with electromagnetic radiation of various wavelengths.
First, select the 'show CFC' option on the bottom right corner of the window. Then, move the scrubber bar in the electromagnetic spectrum to observe how the molecule interacts with IR radiation, UV radiation and microwaves.
Your Turn
What happens when a photon of IR radiation hits the CFC molecule? A photon of UV radiation? A photon of microwave radiation?
When a photon of IR radiation hits the molecule, the bonds in the molecule bend and stretch.
When a photon of UV radiation hits the molecule, a bond in the molecule dissociates and an atom breaks away from the molecule.
When a photon of microwave radiation hits the molecule, the molecule tumbles. The source in a microwave oven, usually at a frequency of 2.45 GHz, causes water, fat, and other molecules in food or liquids to rotate and tumble.