Question

Infrared radiations are also known as heat waves. Why? Also, name the radiation that are next to infrared radiation with (a) Shorter wavelength (b) Longer wavelength.

Answer 1

Step 1: Explanation for Infrared Radiations

1. When materials are exposed to infrared radiation, the water molecules of the material absorb this radiation.
2. Infrared waves have wavelengths that set atoms and molecules into vibrational motion. Infrared waves set particles into vibration producing heat energy.
3. This results in the increase of the thermal motion of the water molecules in that material.
4. They have a heat-inducing property. Sometimes infrared rays are used in applications where heat production is required like in infrared heaters or for therapeutic purposes where a patient requires physical therapy.
5. This is the reason why infrared radiations are also known as heatwaves.

Step 2: Wavelengths near Infrared waves

1. Visible light falls in the range of shorter wavelengths after infrared radiation.
2. Microwaves fall in the range of longer wavelengths before infrared radiation