THE LIGHT FROM BEYOND
Infrared Radiation - Warmth From The Cold of Space
The light we see with our eyes is really a very small portion
of what is called the "Electromagnetic Spectrum." The Electromagnetic Spectrum
includes all types of radiation - from the X-rays used at hospitals, to radio
waves used for communication, and even the microwaves you cook food
with. Radiation in the Electromagnetic Spectrum is often categorized by wavelength.
Short wavelength radiation is of the highest energy and can be very dangerous
- Gamma, X-rays and ultraviolet are examples of short wavelength radiation.
Longer wavelength radiation is of lower energy and is usually less harmful
- examples include radio, microwaves and infrared.
A rainbow shows the optical
(visible) part of the Electromagnetic Spectrum and infrared
(if you could see it) would be located just beyond the red side of the rainbow.
Although infrared radiation is not visible, humans can sense it - as heat.
Put your hand next to a hot oven if you want to experience infrared radiation
"first-hand!
RED ORANGE YELLOW GREEN
BLUE
INDIGO VIOLET
(ROYGBIV)
Infrared Radiation
Ultraviolet Light
Visible Light