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CAIE IGCSE Physics Radiation Question Bank

Practise infrared transfer through a vacuum, surface absorption and emission, energy balance and controlled experiments comparing thermal surfaces.

Syllabus
2026–2028
Course
Physics 0625

Exam points

  • identify infrared as electromagnetic radiation that transfers energy without a medium
  • compare black, white, dull and shiny surfaces as absorbers, emitters and reflectors
  • apply incoming and outgoing energy rates to equilibrium, warming and cooling contexts

Covered syllabus points

2.3.3.1—Thermal radiation is infrared2.3.3.2—Thermal energy transfer by thermal2.3.3.3—Effect of surface colour (black or2.3.3.4—For an object to be at a constant2.3.3.5—What happens to an object if the rate2.3.3.6—How the temperature of the Earth is2.3.3.7—Experiments to distinguish between2.3.3.8—Experiments to distinguish between2.3.3.9—Rate of emission of radiation depends

2.3.3 Radiation question 1

[Maximum number: 3]

Fig. 3.1 shows a mains electric heater used to heat a small room.

Fig. 3.1

Fig. 3.1

Question (a)

(a)

State the region of the electromagnetic spectrum which radiates thermal energy from the heater.

[ 1 ]

Question (b)

(b)

Explain why the shiny metal surface behind the heating elements increases the thermal energy radiated into the room.

[ 2 ]

2.3.3 Radiation question 2

[Maximum number: 1]

State the method of thermal energy transfer from a star through the vacuum of space.

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