Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
Solar radiation refers to the energy emitted by the Sun in the form of electromagnetic waves. It includes visible light, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and infrared (IR) radiation.
Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation: A type of solar radiation that has shorter wavelengths than visible light and can cause sunburns, skin cancer, and damage to living organisms.
Infrared (IR) Radiation: A type of solar radiation that has longer wavelengths than visible light and is responsible for transferring heat energy from the Sun to Earth.
The process by which green plants use solar radiation (specifically, sunlight) to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose (energy-rich sugar) and oxygen.