Does shiny aluminum foil reflect infrared photons?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on whether shiny aluminum foil reflects infrared photons, exploring the properties of aluminum in relation to infrared light and comparing it to other materials.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the reflective properties of shiny aluminum foil specifically for infrared photons.
  • Another participant shares personal experience with metallic surfaces reflecting signals from a TV remote, suggesting that similar principles may apply to infrared reflection.
  • It is stated that shiny aluminum foil does reflect infrared photons, particularly near infrared, but for far infrared, gold-coated optics are preferred due to better reflection properties.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effectiveness of aluminum foil in reflecting infrared photons, with some supporting its reflective properties and others suggesting limitations compared to gold.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the specific conditions under which aluminum foil reflects infrared photons, nor does it address the potential impact of surface texture or other factors.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in materials science, optics, or practical applications of reflective materials in infrared technology may find this discussion relevant.

cragar
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does shiny aluminum foil reflect infrared photons.
 
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I can't say for sure about foil, but I've bounced my TV remote signal off of metallic surfaces just as an experiment and it worked. Same for a standard mirror.
 
Yes, it does. Particularly near infrared; for far infrared, telescopes use gold-coated optics, however, since gold reflects those wavelengths better than does aluminum.
 
sweet , thanks for the responses guys .
 

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