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Diagnosing a Reflection in a Model IR Reading 4 questions
Diagnosing a Reflection in a Model IR Reading
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A class tests an infrared detector for a museum display. It observes two opaque panels, one matte and one polished. The detector receives infrared radiation emitted by a panel and radiation reflected from its surface. The class compares the readings with a warm screen visible to the panels and with the screen covered.
| Panel | Contact temperature in both trials (°C) | Infrared signal with screen covered | Infrared signal with screen uncovered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matte | 30 | 40 | 41 |
| Polished | 30 | 30 | 48 |
Question 1
Which evidence best supports the idea that the uncovered screen adds reflected radiation to the detector?
- Both panels have a contact temperature of 30 °C.
- The polished panel gives a larger signal when uncovered, but its contact temperature does not change.
- Both panels emit infrared radiation when the screen is covered.
- The covered screen makes both panels colder.
Question 2
Calculate the change in the signal for each panel when the screen is uncovered.
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The display team wants to track changes in a panel’s own emission as it warms. A person standing near the detector could become an extra source of reflected infrared radiation.
Question 3
Based on the screen test, which panel gives the team a reading less affected by a change in nearby infrared sources? Use both results.
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Question 4
Describe how a contact thermometer could help the team distinguish actual warming from an effect of someone walking nearby.
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