Worksheet 11.

1
Absorbing radiation
Interpret an experiment that compares different surfaces
and how they absorb infrared radiation.
The diagram shows an experiment to discover which is a better absorber of
infrared radiation, a matt black surface or a shiny silver surface.

The two metal cans are filled with cold water, which is initially at 0C.
1 Explain why the cans gradually warm up.
2 What temperature will they eventually reach?
The temperature of the matt black can is recorded over a period of several
minutes.

Cambridge University Press 2014

Worksheet 11.11

IGCSE Physics

3 Which graph shows correctly the pattern you would expect to see?
4 Copy the correct graph and add a second line to show how you would
expect the temperature of the shiny silver can to change. Label both lines
on your graph.
5 Explain why one can warms up more quickly than the other.

Cambridge University Press 2014

Worksheet 11.12

IGCSE Physics