Comparing Infrared and Ultraviolet Vision: Which Would Be More Useful?

The question ldquo;Would it be more useful to see in infrared or in Ultraviolet?rdquo; is not specific enough to provide a direct answer. Both infrared (IR) and ultraviolet (UV) spectrums are significantly broader than the visible light spectrum, which ranges from about 380nm to 750nm. Infrared spans from around 780nm to 1mm (terahertz or millimeter-wave region), while ultraviolet extends from 10nm to 400nm. However, further differentiation within these bands is necessary to understand the potential benefits and limitations of their respective visions.

Subdivisions and Applications of Infrared

Infrared (IR) can be subdivided into different regions, each with unique applications and characteristics. IR can be categorized as near-IR, mid-IR, and thermal IR. Near-IR (NIR) ranges from 780nm to around 2500nm, and it can reveal hidden details in objects that are not visible to the naked eye in the visible light spectrum. For instance, this image of a typical 'white tree' shot in the near-IR band showcases the remarkable details that are hidden in visible wavelengths. Besides, night vision cameras operate in the near-IR range, making it possible to detect objects in the dark.

Mid-IR (MIR) ranges from approximately 2500nm to 25,000nm and can penetrate through opaque materials that are visible in the visible light spectrum. This wavelength region is particularly useful for identifying and differentiating between substances that appear similar, such as white powders. However, mid-IR photography and imaging techniques are not as widely known or popular as those in the near-IR region.

Thermal IR (TIR) spans from approximately 8000nm to 25,000nm. Thermal imaging in this region is the most practical and useful application. Thermal imaging cameras are widely used in various fields, including security, medical diagnostics, and energy efficiency. For example, using a thermal imager to debug electronics, one can quickly identify powered and active parts, as well as potential short circuits or failed semiconductors. While TIR vision is undoubtedly beneficial, the limitations of perceiving objects and detecting materials in the extremely cold or hot ranges might make it challenging to enjoy a permanentTIR vision.

Subdivisions and Applications of Ultraviolet

Ultraviolet (UV) can also be divided into UVA, UVB, and UVC based on wavelength ranges. UVB and UVC are highly dangerous to human skin and eyes, which is why they are mostly filtered out by the Earth's atmosphere. UVA, ranging from 320nm to 400nm, is less harmful and can be useful for various purposes. For example, UVA vision could help one verify if sunscreen is applied properly, and it could reveal unique patterns on plants, distinguishing between different whites such as titanium and chromium white.

The atmospheric filtering effects also make it difficult to see UVC, as it is largely absorbed by the upper atmosphere. UVC radiation poses significant health risks and is generally not visible to the naked eye without specialized equipment. EUV (extreme ultraviolet) is absorbed by air, making it even less likely to be perceived by the human eye.

Personal Considerations and Applications

Given the aforementioned applications and limitations of IR and UV vision, it is clear that neither would be entirely beneficial to extend the human visual spectrum. Near-IR and thermal IR vision, in particular, offer significant advantages in certain applications (e.g., night vision and thermal imaging), while UVA vision could have practical uses in everyday life. However, extending the visual spectrum to cover the full UV or IR spectrum would be impractical and potentially harmful.

Returning to the original question, while extending vision towards near-IR or thermal IR might be considered a cool and useful capability, seeing the complete UV or IR spectrum without any practical limitations would likely be a disaster. The human eye is adapted to the visible light spectrum for a reason, and extending beyond this range would disrupt our ability to perceive the world as we know it.

In conclusion, while both infrared and ultraviolet spectrums offer unique applications and benefits, it is crucial to consider the specific regions within these bands to determine their value and applicability. The current human visual spectrum, situated within the visible light range, remains the most practical and appropriate for most daily activities and scientific applications.

Images: Google.