Infrared: meaning, definitions and examples
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infrared
[ɪnfrəˈrɛd ]
Definition
electromagnetic spectrum
Infrared refers to a type of electromagnetic radiation that has wavelengths longer than those of visible light but shorter than microwaves. It is commonly associated with heat, as infrared radiation is emitted by all objects with a temperature above absolute zero. Infrared has various applications, including in remote controls, thermal imaging, and night-vision equipment. It can also be used in telecommunications and to transfer data wirelessly.
Synonyms
IR, heat radiation, thermal radiation.
Examples of usage
- The remote control uses infrared signals.
- Thermal cameras detect infrared radiation.
- Infrared saunas are believed to have health benefits.
Interesting Facts
Scientific Discovery
- This type of radiation was discovered in 1800 by astronomer William Herschel who noticed that heat increased just beyond the red part of the light spectrum.
- Infrared radiation is part of the electromagnetic spectrum, which includes many waves of light—both visible and invisible to us.
- It has longer wavelengths than visible light, typically ranging from about 700 nanometers to 1 millimeter.
Technology
- Infrared technology is widely used in remote controls for TVs and other devices, as it allows for wireless communication.
- Medical uses of infrared include thermography, a technique that detects heat patterns in the body to help diagnose conditions.
- Infrared cameras are crucial for night vision technology, allowing users to see in complete darkness by detecting heat emitted from objects.
Environmental Impact
- Infrared radiation plays an essential role in heating our planet; the Earth absorbs sunlight and re-emits it in infrared wavelengths.
- Global warming concerns are tied to infrared radiation, as increased greenhouse gases trap this type of radiation in the atmosphere.
- Astronomers use infrared observations to study celestial objects masked by dust, revealing details invisible in regular light.
Art and Culture
- Infrared technology has allowed art historians to look beneath the surface of paintings to reveal original sketches and changes made by artists.
- Musicians use infrared sensors in performances to create interactive visual displays, responding to their movements with light.
Everyday Life
- Even everyday appliances like toasters utilize infrared radiation to cook bread evenly and give it a golden brown color.
- Some heat lamps in restaurants and cafes use infrared to keep food warm without drying it out, enhancing the dining experience.
Translations
Translations of the word "infrared" in other languages:
🇵🇹 infravermelho
🇮🇳 अवरक्त (avarakta)
🇩🇪 Infrarot
🇮🇩 inframerah
🇺🇦 інфрачервоний
🇵🇱 podczerwień
🇯🇵 赤外線 (sekigaisen)
🇫🇷 infrarouge
🇪🇸 infrarrojo
🇹🇷 kızılötesi
🇰🇷 적외선 (jeogoesun)
🇸🇦 الأشعة تحت الحمراء (al'ashiat taht alhamra)
🇨🇿 infračervený
🇸🇰 infračervený
🇨🇳 红外线 (hóngwàixiàn)
🇸🇮 infrardeča
🇮🇸 innrautt
🇰🇿 инфрақызыл (infraqyzyl)
🇬🇪 ინფრაწითელი (infrach'it'eli)
🇦🇿 infraqırmızı
🇲🇽 infrarrojo