Far infrared: Difference between revisions

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

CSV import
Tags: mobile edit mobile web edit
 
CSV import
 
Line 1: Line 1:
'''Far Infrared (FIR)''' is a region of the [[infrared]] spectrum of [[light]] that has a wavelength longer than visible light, but shorter than [[microwave]] radiation. The range of wavelengths for far infrared is approximately 15 micrometers (μm) to 1 mm, which means it is situated between the [[mid-infrared]] and [[microwave]] bands of the electromagnetic spectrum. This type of radiation, invisible to the human eye, is perceived as heat by the skin.
{{DISPLAYTITLE:Far Infrared}}


==Properties and Applications==
== Overview ==
Far infrared radiation possesses unique properties that make it useful in a variety of applications, ranging from [[medical therapy]] and [[heating]] to [[astronomy]] and [[environmental science]].  
[[File:Electromagnetic_Far_Infrared.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Diagram of the electromagnetic spectrum highlighting the far infrared region.]]
Far infrared (FIR) refers to the part of the [[electromagnetic spectrum]] that lies between the [[mid-infrared]] and the [[microwave]] regions. It encompasses wavelengths from approximately 15 micrometers (µm) to 1 millimeter (mm), corresponding to frequencies from about 20 terahertz (THz) to 300 gigahertz (GHz).


===Medical Therapy===
== Characteristics ==
In the field of [[medicine]], FIR is used for its therapeutic effects. It is believed to improve blood circulation, relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote muscle relaxation. Devices such as infrared saunas and heating pads emit FIR to penetrate the human tissue, providing a deep, soothing warmth. FIR therapy is often used in the treatment of chronic conditions such as [[rheumatoid arthritis]], [[fibromyalgia]], and [[back pain]].
Far infrared radiation is characterized by its longer wavelengths compared to [[near infrared]] and [[mid-infrared]] radiation. This region of the spectrum is often associated with thermal radiation, as it is emitted by objects at room temperature and above. FIR is less energetic than visible light and is not visible to the human eye.


===Heating===
== Applications ==
Far infrared is also utilized in heating applications due to its ability to produce a comfortable, radiant heat that warms objects directly without significantly heating the air in between. This principle is applied in products like infrared heaters and outdoor heating systems.
[[File:Electromagnetic_Far_Infrared.jpg|thumb|left|300px|The far infrared region is used in various applications, including thermal imaging.]]
Far infrared radiation has a variety of applications in different fields:


===Astronomy===
* '''Thermal Imaging''': FIR is used in [[thermal imaging]] cameras to detect heat emitted by objects, which is useful in night vision, surveillance, and firefighting.
In [[astronomy]], FIR observation is crucial for studying the [[universe]]. Far infrared telescopes can detect the thermal emissions of objects in space that are too cool to emit light visible to the naked eye, such as [[nebulae]], [[galaxies]], and [[interstellar clouds]]. This information helps astronomers understand the structure and formation of celestial bodies.
* '''Medical Therapy''': FIR is used in [[infrared saunas]] and other therapeutic devices to promote healing and relaxation by penetrating the skin and warming the body.
* '''Astronomy''': In [[astronomy]], FIR is used to observe cold and distant objects in space, such as [[interstellar dust]] and [[molecular clouds]].
* '''Spectroscopy''': FIR spectroscopy is used to study the vibrational and rotational transitions of molecules, providing insights into molecular structure and dynamics.


===Environmental Science===
== Biological Effects ==
In environmental science, FIR technology is used in remote sensing to monitor and analyze the Earth's atmosphere and surface. It can help detect changes in temperature, moisture levels, and chemical compositions, contributing to research in [[climate change]] and environmental protection.
Far infrared radiation is generally considered safe for humans, as it does not have the ionizing effects associated with higher energy radiation like [[ultraviolet]] or [[X-rays]]. However, prolonged exposure to intense FIR can cause thermal damage to tissues.


==Health and Safety==
== Related Pages ==
While FIR is considered safe for various applications, including medical therapy, excessive exposure can lead to potential health risks such as overheating and burns, especially with direct contact devices like heating pads. It is important to use FIR products according to manufacturer guidelines and under professional supervision when used for therapeutic purposes.
* [[Electromagnetic spectrum]]
* [[Infrared]]
* [[Thermal radiation]]
* [[Infrared spectroscopy]]
* [[Infrared sauna]]


==Research and Development==
[[Category:Electromagnetic spectrum]]
Ongoing research in the field of far infrared technology aims to expand its applications and improve its efficiency. Innovations in materials science, for example, are leading to the development of more effective FIR emitting fabrics and surfaces. In medicine, studies continue to explore the full range of therapeutic benefits and potential uses of FIR in treating different health conditions.
[[Category:Infrared]]
 
[[Category:Infrared radiation]]
[[Category:Medical treatments]]
[[Category:Heating, ventilating, and air conditioning]]
[[Category:Astronomy]]
{{Physics-stub}}
{{Medicine-stub}}

Latest revision as of 06:40, 16 February 2025


Overview[edit]

Diagram of the electromagnetic spectrum highlighting the far infrared region.

Far infrared (FIR) refers to the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that lies between the mid-infrared and the microwave regions. It encompasses wavelengths from approximately 15 micrometers (µm) to 1 millimeter (mm), corresponding to frequencies from about 20 terahertz (THz) to 300 gigahertz (GHz).

Characteristics[edit]

Far infrared radiation is characterized by its longer wavelengths compared to near infrared and mid-infrared radiation. This region of the spectrum is often associated with thermal radiation, as it is emitted by objects at room temperature and above. FIR is less energetic than visible light and is not visible to the human eye.

Applications[edit]

The far infrared region is used in various applications, including thermal imaging.

Far infrared radiation has a variety of applications in different fields:

  • Thermal Imaging: FIR is used in thermal imaging cameras to detect heat emitted by objects, which is useful in night vision, surveillance, and firefighting.
  • Medical Therapy: FIR is used in infrared saunas and other therapeutic devices to promote healing and relaxation by penetrating the skin and warming the body.
  • Astronomy: In astronomy, FIR is used to observe cold and distant objects in space, such as interstellar dust and molecular clouds.
  • Spectroscopy: FIR spectroscopy is used to study the vibrational and rotational transitions of molecules, providing insights into molecular structure and dynamics.

Biological Effects[edit]

Far infrared radiation is generally considered safe for humans, as it does not have the ionizing effects associated with higher energy radiation like ultraviolet or X-rays. However, prolonged exposure to intense FIR can cause thermal damage to tissues.

Related Pages[edit]

Retrieved from "https://wikimd.com/index.php?title=Far_infrared&oldid=6299929"