English National Curriculum - Science

Infrared radiation & required practical

Mission Objectives

State what is meant by infrared and what infrared photos can tell us

Recognise that different coloured surfaces will emit different amounts of radiation

Explain how thermal imaging technology is used in real-world applications

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

absorption

the process by which an object takes in energy from infrared radiation, causing its temperature to increase

infrared radiation

a type of electromagnetic radiation emitted by all objects, often referred to as heat or thermal radiation, which can travel through a vacuum and does not require particles to transfer energy

reflection

the process by which infrared radiation bounces off the surface of an object, preventing it from being absorbed

surface properties

the characteristics of a material's surface (e.g., colour, texture) that determine how effectively it emits, absorbs or reflects infrared radiation (e.g., black surfaces absorb well, shiny surfaces reflect well)

emission

the process by which objects release energy in the form of infrared radiation

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This lesson has been written by

Samantha Batch

Samantha is an accomplished science educator whose current work centres on curriculum design and professional development, supporting teachers to deliver high-quality science education through evidence-informed approaches. She is a former Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 experience, and has worked as an AQA examiner, giving her valuable insight into assessment standards and what students need to succeed.

Underpinning this is a strong foundation in applied science built across a range of industry roles. Samantha has held scientific roles at John Smith's Brewery, Yorkshire Water and WasteCare, where she led technical projects, drove operational efficiencies and ensured compliance with industry standards. Across these roles she has first-hand experience of how scientific knowledge translates into measurable outcomes in professional and commercial environments.

In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket. 

Required Resources

Leslie cube
Kettle
Heatproof mat
Thermometers
Infrared thermometer
Test tubes

Different types of materials: white matte, silver shiny, black matte

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