Understanding the Difference between Radiance and Irradiance

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Radiance and irradiance are distinct concepts in radiometry. Radiance refers to the radiant energy crossing a surface per unit time traveling normal to that surface, while irradiance is the total radiant energy crossing a surface from all directions within the hemisphere above it. This differentiation is crucial for understanding energy transport in electromagnetic radiation. The discussion highlights common misconceptions and clarifies the definitions of these terms.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic radiation principles
  • Familiarity with radiometry terminology
  • Basic knowledge of surface interactions with light
  • Ability to interpret scientific equations related to energy transport
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical definitions of radiance and irradiance
  • Explore applications of radiometry in fields like optics and astronomy
  • Learn about the measurement techniques for radiance and irradiance
  • Study the implications of these concepts in environmental science and energy efficiency
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, optics, environmental science, and engineering who seek to deepen their understanding of radiometric concepts and their applications.

funcosed
Messages
35
Reaction score
0
Radiance, Irradiance?

Homework Statement


Hi, just wondering if my understanding of the difference between these two is correct??


Homework Equations


If radient energy is the energy transported by electromagnetic radiation then radiance is the radient energy crossing a surface per unit time that is traveling normal to the surface.
Irradience is the radient energy crossing the surface from all directions (hemisphere above the surface.


The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org

Similar threads

What Are the Differences Between Black Body Radiation Formulas?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
Graduate Simple math model for a Particle Image Velocimetry system
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
927
Radiant Intensity vs. Irradiance
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
15K
Undergrad Relation between spectral radiance and density of cavity
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
Graduate Laser induced damage and irradiation time
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Graduate What Is the Relationship Between Radiant Intensity and Radiance?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
7K
Compute temperature rise from solar irradiance
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
6K
Graduate Why is radiance defined per projected area normal to the beam direction?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Graduate Radiance of a Lambertian emitter
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
10K
Undergrad What are Radiance and Irradiance and how do they differ?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
20K