Radiation

Definition

Radiation is the emission of energy as electromagnetic waves or as moving subatomic particles. It is a fundamental process in transferring energy across space and matter.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Radiation includes visible light, radio waves, gamma rays, and X-rays, each differing in wavelength and frequency.
2. The Sun's energy is primarily produced through nuclear fusion in its core, emitting radiation across the electromagnetic spectrum.
3. The behavior of light (radiation) can be described by wave-particle duality, meaning it exhibits properties of both waves and particles.
4. Spectroscopy uses the analysis of radiation to determine the composition and other properties of astronomical objects.
5. In astronomy, understanding radiation is crucial for interpreting data from telescopes that detect various wavelengths beyond visible light.

Review Questions

• What are the different types of radiation based on wavelength?
• How does nuclear fusion in the Sun produce radiation?
• Why is spectroscopy important in studying astronomical objects?

Related terms

Electromagnetic Spectrum:

The range of all types of electromagnetic radiation including radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays.

Nuclear Fusion:

The process where atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing tremendous amounts of energy seen as radiation.

Spectroscopy:

A technique used to analyze the light emitted or absorbed by materials to determine their composition and physical properties.