GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Infrared Radiation

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Waves Black body radiation

Infrared Radiation

3:25 Infrared Radiation and Black Bodies
Spec 4.6.3.1 4.6.3.2
Previous Forming Images Next Temperature & Emission
  • Infrared radiation is a type of electromagnetic wave emitted and absorbed by all objects.
  • Infrared waves have slightly longer wavelengths than visible light and are not visible to the human eye.
  • Objects like a dog and a ball absorb and emit infrared waves, exchanging waves with each other.
  • All objects, living or non-living, metal or non-metal, big or small, emit and absorb infrared waves.
  • Emitting infrared radiation causes an object to lose internal energy and decrease its temperature.
  • This behavior is observable in hot meals cooling down or warm people in cold rooms.
  • Electric heaters emit infrared waves to release built-up heat while still absorbing some waves.
  • Absorbing infrared radiation causes an object to gain internal energy and increase its temperature.
  • This is seen when warming up with a heater or melting ice in a warm room.
  • Ovens use infrared waves to cook food, like a potato, by increasing its internal energy.
  • Objects continue to emit their own infrared waves even while absorbing others.
  • For exams, it's important to know that all objects can absorb and emit infrared waves, but not why this happens or why infrared waves specifically are involved.

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