'''Solar radiation''' is a general term for the [[electromagnetic radiation]] that is emitted by the [[sun]]. While the [[sun]] emits energy at a wide range of frequencies, peak radiance is within the visible range of the spectrum.
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'''Solar radiation''' is a general term for the visible and near visible (ultraviolet and near-infrared) [[electromagnetic radiation]] that is emitted by the [[sun]]. Peak radiance is within the visibile range of the spectrum.
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Solar radiation has a spectral, or wavelength, distribution that corresponds, roughly, to a black body curve. Short wavelength radiation has a higher energy than long-wavelength radiation.
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Solar radiation has a spectral, or wavelength, distribution that corresponds to different energy levels. Short wavelength radiation has a higher energy than long-wavelength radiation.