GCSE AQA Physics - P2.2-3 - Infrared Radiation & Black body radiation (2 lessons)

2 New GCSE AQA Physics lesson on 'Infrared Radiation & Black body radiation' written in line with new AQA Physics specification.
Bundled together is 2 complete lessons on infra-red radiation with different learning objectives and activities.

LESSON 1 - Infrared radiation and black body radiation

Lesson starts with optical illusion which makes white dots appear black, this is to start thoughts on what black is and engage students with something a bit different. The difference between heat and temperature is discussed to lead to what infrared radiation is. A question posed about whether ice gives off infrared radiation consolidates a key point. Thermal imaging is explored with how it works and a guess what it is exercise of infrared images.
Different shades of black are shown to discuss what black does in terms of visible light, leading to an explanation of perfect black body radiation. Black body radiation and infrared emission at varied temperatures is discussed (including a link to a useful simulation). The effect of absorption and emission of infrared on bodies is detailed concluding with summary question on the topic.

Lesson Objectives:
State the difference between heat and infra-red radiation.
Explain what is meant by ‘black-body radiation’.
Identify the effects of infra-red radiation can have on a body.
Relate the effects of absorption and emission of infra-red radiation has on a body.


LESSON 2 - Infrared radiation, surfaces and bodies

The use of black balls on the LA reservoir is shown in gif images to pupils to discuss why they did this. Absorption and emission of infrared is reviewed briefly. This leads to factors which effect the Earth's temperature and how greenhouse gases impact this. An experiment to investigate different surfaces and infrared emission, absorption and reflection is outlined. The key points from this investigation are summarised for note taking. A true or false activity reviews previous content followed by review questions. Infrared emission, absorption and reflection is applied through questioning to the Earth & the moon, satellites in space and the starter on the LA reservoir.

Lesson Objectives:
Identify and explain key factors that effect the temperature of the Earth.
Investigate and identify the properties of different materials and their effect on infra-red radiation.
Apply your knowledge of infrared radiation and surfaces to real life problems.
Explain why the temperature on the Moon is different to the Earth.