Investigating Radiation is a free interactive simulation of thermal radiation from different surfaces for GCSE Physics (Edexcel IGCSE 4PH1). Students vary the tube surface — black, white, silver or clear — and record temperature over time to investigate how surface colour and texture affect the rate of infrared radiation. This is a required practical for Edexcel IGCSE 4PH1. No login required — includes a worksheet and self-marking quiz.

Aim: The aim of the experiment is to investigate how the amount of infrared radiation absorbed or radiated by a surface depends on the nature of that surface.

00:00
85.0°C
Black Tube
85°C
White Tube
85°C
Silver Tube
85°C
Clear Tube

Results table

Time (min) Black (°C) White (°C) Silver (°C) Clear (°C) Action