radiation definition - ExpertGlossary

Energy transfer in the form of electromagnetic waves or particles that release energy when absorbed by an object. See ultraviolet radiation, infrared radiation, solar radiation, longwave radiation.
EPA - Cite This Source - This Definition
Energy emitted in the form of electromagnetic waves. Radiation has differing characteristics depending upon the wavelength. Because the radiation from the Sun is relatively energetic, it has a short wavelength (ultra-violet, visible, and near infrared) while energy radiated from the Earth's surface and the atmosphere has a longer wavelength (e.g., infrared radiation) because the Earth is cooler than the Sun. See ultraviolet radiation, infrared radiation, solar radiation, longwave radiation, terrestrial radiation.
EPA - Cite This Source - This Definition
Radiation 1) Emission or transfer of energy in the form of electromagnetic waves. 2) The process by which electromagnetic radiation is propagated through free space by virtue of joint undulatory variations in the electric and magnetic fields in space. This concept is to be distinguished from conduction and convection.
NSIDC - Cite This Source - This Definition
Browse Related Terms: Absorption of radiation, Heat balance of the Earth-atmosphere system, insolation, Mount Pinatubo, Photovoltaic and solar thermal energy, Solar energy, Solar Radiation, solar variability, ultraviolet radiation, Ultraviolet Radiation (UV)

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