Infrared Radiation - Discovery, working and properties

I've been working really hard on two articles that I started writing when I was preparing some notes for GCSE Physics. I was trying to put some easy points together for students doing their GCSE science and in that process, my research for literature led to me writing down two hubs, one of which I am sharing here. 

This can be used as a reference for an easy understanding of Infrared radiation for school and college/university students.

How does Infrared Radiation work? Discovery, Detection, Properties and Facts about Infrared

Now coming back to the hub, it was about Infrared radiation, which is part of the electromagnetic spectrum and lies on the invisible region above the visible red region. 

I meant above the red region, because its wavelength is longer than the visible red light. It is infrared (infra means below), because its frequency is less than the frequency of visible red light.

Electromagnetic Spectrum

The equation below will solve your confusion.

The equation for the velocity or speed of light is

Velocity of light = Wavelength x Frequency

We all know that velocity of light is a constant. So if the wavelength of a particular light increases, its frequency has to decrease (decrease in energy) and vice-versa, for the velocity to be a constant. 

Also look at the relationship between Wavelength, Frequency and Energy:

Courtesy: hubblesite.org

Infrared radiation is a very interesting form of radiation that was discovered by a German born British musician and astronomer Sir Frederick William Herschel in 1800. 

Sir Frederick William Herschel

Infrared radiation heats up the objects on which it falls. All objects that have a temperature above absolute zero (zero degrees Kelvin), emit infrared radiation.

Interesting Fact: A block of ice emits infrared radiation. Although it is cold, its temperature is above absolute zero!

Infrared red radiation travels with the speed of light and they can be absorbed or reflected depending on the substance on which they fall. 

Infrared Radiation

To read more about infrared radiation, its working, properties and many more details, please follow the link below.

How does Infrared Radiation work? Discovery, Detection, Properties and Facts about Infrared

I hope this has been of some use to you. Please do not hesitate to feedback. 

I wish you all a lovely week ahead.

Peace

Livingsta