Why is electromagnetic radiation important in remote sensing?

Why is electromagnetic radiation important in remote sensing?

Two characteristics of electromagnetic radiation are particularly important for understanding remote sensing. These are the wavelength and frequency. The wavelength is the length of one wave cycle, which can be measured as the distance between successive wave crests. The longer the wavelength, the lower the frequency.

What is electromagnetic radiation in GIS?

GIS Dictionary. electromagnetic radiation. [physics] Energy that moves through space at the speed of light as different wavelengths of time-varying electric and magnetic fields. Types of electromagnetic radiation include gamma, x, ultraviolet, visible, infrared, microwave, and radio.

What is electromagnetic radiation used for?

The energy of EM radiation determines its usefulness for diagnostic imaging. Because of their extremely short wavelengths, gamma rays and x-rays are capable of penetrating large body parts. Gamma rays are used in radionuclide imaging. X-rays are used for plain film and computed tomography (CT) imaging.

What is the characteristics of electromagnetic radiation?

Properties of Electromagnetic Radiation These magnetic and electric waves travel perpendicular to each other and have some characteristics like wavelength, amplitude, and frequency. Some basic properties of Electromagnetic Radiation are given in the points mentioned below. They can travel through empty space.

What kind of energy can be used for remote sensing?

The sun is the most commonly used source of energy for passive remote sensing. The satellite sensor in this case records primarily the radiation that is reflected from the target. Remote sensing in the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum is an example of passive (reflected) remote sensing.

What is remote sensing and types of remote sensing?

There are two types of remote sensing technology, active and passive remote sensing. Active sensors emit energy in order to scan objects and areas whereupon a sensor then detects and measures the radiation that is reflected or backscattered from the target.

What is the theory of electromagnetic radiation?

In terms of the modern quantum theory, electromagnetic radiation is the flow of photons (also called light quanta) through space. Electromagnetic radiation exhibits a multitude of phenomena as it interacts with charged particles in atoms, molecules, and larger objects of matter.

What emits electromagnetic radiation?

Electromagnetic radiation is produced whenever a charged particle, such as an electron, changes its velocity—i.e., whenever it is accelerated or decelerated. The energy of the electromagnetic radiation thus produced comes from the charged particle and is therefore lost by it.

What is the purpose of remote sensing?

Remote sensing is the process of detecting and monitoring the physical characteristics of an area by measuring its reflected and emitted radiation at a distance (typically from satellite or aircraft). Special cameras collect remotely sensed images, which help researchers “sense” things about the Earth.