1. Visible Light: This is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that our eyes can see, giving us the colors of the rainbow.
2. Infrared Radiation: This is what we feel as heat. It's invisible to our eyes but we can sense it as warmth.
3. Ultraviolet Radiation: This is a type of radiation that can be harmful to our skin and eyes, leading to sunburns and skin cancer. It's also responsible for creating Vitamin D in our bodies.
4. X-rays and Gamma Rays: These are high-energy forms of radiation that are emitted from the sun's corona (the outermost layer of its atmosphere). They are very dangerous to humans and can be harmful in large doses.
Other emissions: The sun also emits other less prominent forms of radiation, such as radio waves and microwaves.
The Electromagnetic Spectrum:
The Sun's emissions are part of the electromagnetic spectrum, which includes all types of electromagnetic radiation, from low-energy radio waves to high-energy gamma rays.
Key takeaway: The sun emits a variety of rays, including visible light, infrared radiation, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays and gamma rays. Each of these rays has different properties and effects on us and the Earth.