* Ionizing radiation has enough energy to knock electrons off atoms, creating ions. This can damage cells and cause health problems. Examples include X-rays, gamma rays, and ultraviolet radiation.

* Non-ionizing radiation doesn't have enough energy to ionize atoms. While it can still interact with matter and cause heating, it doesn't cause the same level of cellular damage as ionizing radiation. Examples include infrared radiation, microwaves, and radio waves.

Infrared radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths longer than visible light but shorter than microwaves. It's often used for heating, as it can be absorbed by molecules and cause them to vibrate, increasing their temperature.

In summary: While infrared radiation can be absorbed by molecules and cause heating, it doesn't have enough energy to break chemical bonds or ionize atoms. Therefore, it's considered non-ionizing radiation and generally considered safe for human exposure.