Solar radiation

Solar radiation is energy emitted by the Sun across the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to X-rays. It drives planetary heating and many atmospheric and biological processes.

Solar spectrum: The distribution of the Sun’s emitted energy across electromagnetic wavelengths. It shows which wavelengths carry solar energy and how much each contributes.
Solar energy: Energy obtained from sunlight and converted into useful heat or electricity. It turns incoming solar radiation into a human energy resource.
Electromagnetic spectrum: The full range of electromagnetic radiation, ordered by frequency or wavelength. Solar radiation occupies only part of this complete range.
Solar irradiance: The solar radiant power received per unit area at a specified location or distance. Its variations alter the energy available to Earth and its atmosphere.
Electromagnetic radiation: Energy propagated through space as oscillating electric and magnetic fields. Solar radiation is one naturally occurring source of this broader phenomenon.
Photovoltaics: The direct conversion of light into electrical current using semiconductor materials. Photovoltaic cells convert part of the solar spectrum into electricity.
Wavelength: The distance between corresponding points on successive cycles of a wave. Wavelength determines the spectral region and helps describe solar radiation.
Atmospheric absorption: The transfer of radiation energy to atmospheric gases, particles, and clouds. Absorption filters parts of the solar spectrum before it reaches the surface.
Blackbody radiation: Electromagnetic radiation emitted by an idealized object whose spectrum depends on its temperature. The Sun’s visible and infrared output approximates a thermal spectrum.
Solar thermal energy: The use of sunlight to produce heat for buildings, industry, or electricity generation. Thermal systems capture absorbed solar radiation as heat.

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