Infrared Radiation
Physics: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 6.6.1
Radiation
Infrared radiation can transfer thermal energy without a medium (substance to travel through). All bodies (objects) emit radiation.
Electromagnetic wave
- Infra-red radiation is an electromagnetic wave (it is part of the electromagnetic spectrum).
- We cannot see it but we do feel it as heat.
The Sun
- The infra-red radiation emitted by the Sun transmits thermal (heat) energy to the Earth.
- Infra-red radiation does not need a medium, so can still travel through space.
Test yourself on Infrared Radiation
What does the word 'medium' mean?
Which of the following statements are true of infra-red radiation?
Why does the Sun make us feel warm?