Radiant energy

Definition

Radiant energy is the energy of electromagnetic waves. It includes visible light, radio waves, X-rays, and other forms of electromagnetic radiation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Radiant energy can be converted to other forms of energy, such as thermal or electrical energy.
2. The Sun is the primary source of radiant energy for Earth.
3. It travels at the speed of light in a vacuum, approximately $3 \times 10^8$ meters per second.
4. Radiant energy is quantified using units like joules (J) or electron volts (eV).
5. The conservation of energy principle applies to radiant energy; it cannot be created or destroyed but only transformed.

Review Questions

• What are some common examples of radiant energy?
• How is radiant energy related to the conservation of energy principle?
• In what units can radiant energy be measured?

Related terms

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

Photon: A quantum particle representing a quantum of light or other electromagnetic radiation. It carries energy proportional to the radiation frequency.

Energy Conversion: The process of changing one form of energy into another, such as converting radiant energy from the sun into electrical energy using solar panels.