Radio waves are at the lower end of the spectrum because they have much longer wavelengths than other types of radiant energy. Let’s take a look at the seven types of radiant energy in order of their frequency. Higher-frequency waves have shorter wavelengths and produce more energy, with frequency measured in Hertz (Hz), or the number of cycles per second. The main difference is in their wavelength, or the frequency of the waves they produce. What Are the 7 Types of Radiant Energy?Īll types of radiant energy are on the same electromagnetic spectrum (sometimes abbreviated as EM spectrum). Solar panels turn solar radiation into electrical energy. Plants turn the sun’s radiant energy into chemical energy using photosynthesis.
This energy doesn’t produce any heat when moving through space because there isn’t anything for it to interact with.īut when it reaches the Earth, it transfers that energy onto other objects. When the sun releases energy, it travels to Earth in the form of solar radiation, a type of radiant energy. At its most elementary level, electromagnetic waves are made up of photons, which have no mass and move at the speed of light. Radiant energy moves from one place to another in the form of electromagnetic waves or electromagnetic radiation. Unlike potential energy, in which energy is stored and can be used later, radiant energy is a type of kinetic energy, which means that it’s related to motion.Įverything from the sunlight coming through your window to the microwave you use to heat your food is a form of radiant energy.
According to Lehigh University, radiant energy is “ electromagnetic energy that travels in transverse waves.” Let’s start by exploring the definition of radiant energy. Learn everything you need to know about radiant energy and how one type of radiant energy – radiant heating – can help you save money on your electricity bill. Most types of radiant energy, such as X-rays and radio waves, don’t fall on the spectrum of visible light so they require specialized equipment to perceive.īut even when we can’t see radiant energy, it’s still an incredibly important resource: we use it to communicate over long distances, grow crops, and even heat our homes.
That’s because only a small portion of it is visible to the human eye. Radiant energy is one of the most important forms of energy on the planet, but it’s easy to overlook.
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