The full electromagnetic spectrum spans an enormous range of wavelengths. Which of the following best represents the approximate overall wavelength limits (in metres) commonly cited in remote sensing and physics?

Introduction / Context:
The electromagnetic (EM) spectrum encompasses gamma rays, X-rays, ultraviolet, visible, infrared, microwaves, and radio waves. Remote sensing exploits specific sub-bands that are transmissive through the atmosphere and carry meaningful surface information. Knowing the rough overall limits of the spectrum builds intuition for sensor design and signal behavior.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question seeks a broad, order-of-magnitude range of EM wavelengths.
• Exact boundaries vary by convention; approximate orders suffice.
• Remote sensing typically uses visible to microwave bands but understanding the full range is useful.

Concept / Approach:
Common physics references cite the spectrum over many decades of wavelength. A representative overall span goes from about 10^-10 m (hard X-ray/near gamma region) to around 10^10 m (long radio waves). While the exact endpoints can differ slightly, this selection captures the intended magnitude across 20 orders.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Compare each option's lower and upper exponents to typical references.Note that 10^-10 to 10^10 m covers gamma/X-ray to very long radio wavelengths.Select that range as the best overall descriptor.

Verification / Alternative check:
Physics texts and EM spectrum charts show practical ranges extending even further in some conventions, but 10^-10 to 10^10 m is a commonly accepted broad span.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 10^-8 to 10^6 m and 10^-8 to 10^8 m under-represent the extremes.
• 10^-10 to 10^6 m cuts off very long radio wavelengths.
• 10^-12 to 10^2 m is too narrow at the radio end.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating the remote sensing operational spectrum with the entire EM spectrum; ignoring that endpoint definitions vary slightly across sources.

Final Answer:
10^-10 to 10^10 m