Radiation is the transfer of energy through electromagnetic waves. Unlike conduction or convection, which require a medium (like air or water) to transfer heat, radiation can occur in a vacuum. This phenomenon occurs because electromagnetic waves can travel through empty space, allowing energy to be transmitted from one place to another.
Electromagnetic waves include a broad spectrum of frequencies, including radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays. The higher the frequency of the wave, the more energy it carries. For example, visible light is a form of radiation that is detectable by the human eye, while infrared radiation is felt as heat.
Understanding radiation is crucial in various fields, from astronomy to medicine, as it plays a significant role in energy transfer processes in our universe, influencing everything from the warmth of the sun to the functioning of microwave ovens.