radiation Flashcards
1
Q
what is radiation?
A
the transfer of heat energy by electromagnetic waves
2
Q
how does heat travel to earth by?
A
infrared waves, they are similar to light and are able to travel through a vacuum
3
Q
what do black/matt surfaces do?
A
absorb and emit more infrared radiation
4
Q
what do light/shiny surfaces do?
A
reflect more infrared radiation
5
Q
what is the worst emitter and absorber?
A
silver
6
Q
why is silver the worst absorber?
A
because they reflect most of the radiation away
