Categories of Infrared
IR is divided into five categories based on wavelength:
Near-Infrared (NIR): Ranges from 700 nm to about 1400 nm. Used in optical communication and remote sensing.
Short-Wavelength Infrared (SWIR): Extends from 1400 nm to 3000 nm. Useful for material analysis.
Mid-Wavelength Infrared (MWIR): Spans 3000 nm to 8000 nm. Applied in thermal imaging and gas detection.
Long-Wavelength Infrared (LWIR): Covers 8000 nm to 15000 nm. Commonly used in surveillance and medical imaging.
Far-Infrared (FIR): Encompasses 15,000 nm to 1 mm. Relevant for astronomy and molecular vibrations.
What is Infrared (IR)?
Infrared (IR) is a type of electromagnetic radiation that has longer wavelengths than visible light, making it invisible to the human eye. It falls just beyond the red portion of the visible spectrum, hence its name meaning “below red.” Infrared radiation can carry heat and is commonly emitted by objects like the sun, light bulbs, and even living beings.
This radiation is used in various applications, including remote controls, night-vision devices, and thermal imaging cameras, as well as in telecommunications and some scientific research
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