How does a IR thermometer work?

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    Ir Thermometer Work
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the functioning of infrared (IR) thermometers, specifically how they measure temperature and the effects of environmental factors on their readings. Participants explore the principles behind IR thermometers, including the role of emitted light and potential interferences from surrounding elements.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether IR thermometers measure temperature through the intensity or wavelengths of emitted light.
  • Another participant raises concerns about the potential confusion caused by IR light emitted by the air between the cloud and the detector when measuring the temperature of clouds.
  • There is a query regarding the effects of pointing an IR thermometer at the sun or an old-fashioned light bulb, particularly whether it is sensitive to visible black body radiation.
  • One participant asserts that IR thermometers measure the wavelength of emitted light and states that air is transparent to infrared radiation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains multiple viewpoints and remains unresolved regarding the specifics of how IR thermometers function and the implications of environmental factors on their readings.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a consensus on the mechanisms of IR thermometers, and there are unresolved questions about the effects of various light sources on their operation.

mcjhn
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was just wondering...

Do IR thermometers measure the temperature of an object via the intensity or wavelengths of emitted light?

I've heard that you can measure the temperature of clouds with them, why doesn't the IR light emitted by the air in between the cloud and the detector confuse it?

[**I've heard this can damage them] What happens you point one at the sun? or an old fashioned light bulb? (is it not sensitive to visible black body radiation)?

(hopefull those make sense) thanks!
 
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mcjhn said:
was just wondering...

Do IR thermometers measure the temperature of an object via the intensity or wavelengths of emitted light?

I've heard that you can measure the temperature of clouds with them, why doesn't the IR light emitted by the air in between the cloud and the detector confuse it?

[**I've heard this can damage them] What happens you point one at the sun? or an old fashioned light bulb? (is it not sensitive to visible black body radiation)?

(hopefull those make sense) thanks!

Welcome to the PF.

Wikipedia has an intro article:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infrared_thermometer

.
 
hi, thanks I already had a look on there and couldn't find the info I was after
 
They measure the wavelength...and air is transparent to ir.
 

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