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The Epic Interactive Encyclopedia 1998
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Epic Interactive Encyclopedia, The - 1998 Edition (1998)(Epic Marketing).iso
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Infrared_radiation
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1992-09-02
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21 lines
Invisible electromagnetic radiation of
wavelength between about 0.75 micrometres and
1 millimetre, that is, between the limit of
the red end of the visible spectrum and the
shortest microwaves. All bodies above the
absolute zero of temperature absorb and
radiate infrared radiation. Infrared
radiation is used in medical photography and
treatment, and in industry, astronomy, and
criminology. Infrared absorption spectra are
also used in chemical analysis, particularly
for organic compounds; objects that radiate
infrared radiation can be photographed or
made visible in the dark, or through mist or
fog, on specially sensitized emulsions. This
is important for military purposes and in
detecting people buried under rubble. The
strong absorption by many substances of
infrared radiation is a useful method of
applying heat, as in baking and toasting.