The Sun emits a wide range of electromagnetic radiation, including the following examples that reach Earth:
Radio Waves: The Sun emits radio waves with long wavelengths. These waves are used in radio astronomy to study solar activity and can also be detected by radio telescopes on Earth.
Microwaves: Microwaves from the Sun are primarily absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere, but some reach the surface. They play a role in heating the atmosphere and are also utilized in satellite communication.
Infrared Radiation: Infrared radiation, often referred to as heat radiation, is emitted by the Sun and reaches the Earth's surface. It plays a crucial role in the Earth's energy balance, contributing to warming the planet.
Visible Light: The Sun emits visible light across a broad spectrum of wavelengths, ranging from violet to red. This is the light that enables us to see and is responsible for illuminating the Earth during the day.
Ultraviolet Radiation: The Sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is divided into three bands: UVA, UVB, and UVC. Most UVC and a significant portion of UVB are absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere, but UVA and some UVB reach the surface. UV radiation can cause sunburns and is a major contributor to skin cancer.
X-rays: The Sun also emits X-rays, which have higher energy than UV radiation. However, the Earth's atmosphere absorbs most X-rays, preventing them from reaching the surface. X-rays emitted by the Sun are primarily detected by space-based telescopes.
Gamma Rays: The Sun occasionally emits gamma rays, which have the highest energy among the electromagnetic spectrum. However, the Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field effectively shield us from the Sun's gamma rays, so only a negligible amount reaches the surface.
It's important to note that the Earth's atmosphere filters and absorbs some of the Sun's electromagnetic radiation, allowing only certain wavelengths to reach the surface. This natural filtering is vital for the survival of life on Earth, as it protects us from excessive exposure to harmful radiation.