In remote sensing and atmospheric physics, the spectral region of electromagnetic radiation that passes through the Earth’s atmosphere with minimal attenuation is known as:

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Atmospheric window

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
In satellite remote sensing and earth observation, not all wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation reach the surface or a sensor in orbit. Certain wavelength bands are absorbed by atmospheric gases such as water vapor, carbon dioxide, and ozone, while other bands pass through with comparatively little loss. These transmissive parts of the spectrum enable most optical, infrared, and microwave sensing systems to operate effectively.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The question asks for the term used to describe spectral regions with high atmospheric transmission.
  • We consider radiation passing through the atmosphere with minimal attenuation due to absorption or scattering.
  • Standard terminology from remote sensing is assumed.


Concept / Approach:
An atmospheric window is a spectral interval where the atmosphere is relatively transparent, allowing radiation to pass with limited attenuation. Common windows include parts of the visible and near-infrared (roughly 0.4–0.9 micrometres), shortwave infrared windows, the thermal infrared window near 8–14 micrometres, and specific microwave windows. These windows are exploited by passive and active sensors to maximize signal-to-noise and reduce atmospheric corrections.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the phenomenon: minimal attenuation across specific wavelength ranges.Recall the technical term: 'atmospheric window' for transmissive bands.Eliminate distractors that are unrelated to transmission (e.g., 'ozone hole', 'black hole').Select the correct term: 'Atmospheric window'.



Verification / Alternative check:
Review typical sensor band placements (e.g., Landsat, Sentinel, MODIS) which align bands within known windows to reduce absorption by water vapor and CO2.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Ozone hole: a depletion region in the stratospheric ozone layer, not a spectral window.
  • Ozone window: not a standard term in this context.
  • Black hole: an astrophysical object; irrelevant to atmospheric transmission.
  • Transmission gap: vague and not the established term.



Common Pitfalls:
Confusing physical atmospheric features (e.g., ozone hole) with spectral transmission concepts; assuming all visible light is fully transmissive without considering aerosols and Rayleigh scattering.



Final Answer:
Atmospheric window

More Questions from Elements of Remote Sensing

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion