Infrared Radiation
Infrared radiation, also known as thermal radiation, is a form of electromagnetic radiation that lies just beyond the visible light spectrum. It is a type of heat energy emitted by objects with temperatures above absolute zero. Infrared radiation has wavelengths ranging from 780 nanometers (nm) to 1 millimeter (mm).
Infrared radiation can be divided into three regions: near-infrared, mid-infrared, and far-infrared.
Near-infrared has wavelengths between 780 nm and 1.4 µm and is primarily emitted by objects with low temperatures, such as plants.
Mid-infrared has wavelengths between 1.4 µm and 3 µm and is mainly emitted by medium-temperature objects, such as animals and humans.
Far-infrared has wavelengths between 3 µm and 1 mm and is emitted by high-temperature sources like incandescent bulbs or fire.
Infrared radiation plays a vital role in many areas of science and technology. For example, it is used in thermal imaging to visualize heat sources and in medical technology for treating pain and injuries. In space exploration, infrared is used to measure the temperatures of planets and stars.
In thermography, thermal images are created by capturing infrared radiation from objects and people and converting it into visible light. This allows for the identification and analysis of heat sources that are invisible to the naked eye.
In architecture and residential construction, infrared radiation is used to heat spaces via infrared heaters. Infrared radiators or heating panels utilize the fact that walls, furniture, and people can absorb and store thermal energy, directly warming the surroundings rather than the air. Infrared radiation also plays a significant role in photovoltaic technology.