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AQA GCSE · Question 01.7 · Waves
The Sun and the Earth both emit infrared radiation. How does the rate of infrared radiation emitted by the Sun compare with the rate of infrared radiation emitted by the Earth? Give a reason for your answer.
The Sun and the Earth both emit infrared radiation. How does the rate of infrared radiation emitted by the Sun compare with the rate of infrared radiation emitted by the Earth? Give a reason for your answer.
How to approach this question
First, decide if the Sun emits more, less, or the same amount of infrared radiation as the Earth. Tick the correct box. Then, provide a reason for your choice. Think about the properties of objects that affect how much radiation they emit.
Full Answer
All objects emit thermal radiation (infrared). The rate at which an object emits radiation depends on its temperature and surface area. Hotter objects emit radiation at a much greater rate than cooler objects. Since the Sun is significantly hotter than the Earth, it emits infrared radiation at a much greater rate.
Common mistakes
✗ Stating the Sun is bigger, which is true, but temperature is the more critical factor for the rate of emission.\n✗ Incorrectly thinking the Earth emits more because it absorbs radiation from the Sun.
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