lähiinfrapunavalon

Lähiinfrapunavalon, or near‑infrared light, is a portion of the electromagnetic spectrum with wavelengths just beyond visible red light, typically ranging from about 700 nanometers to 2500 nanometers. It is not visible to the human eye, but it can be detected by special sensors and is used in various scientific, medical, and industrial applications. Near‑infrared light is absorbed and scattered less by many materials than visible light, which allows it to penetrate deeper into biological tissues and other substances.

In medical diagnostics, near‑infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) measures changes in oxygen saturation and blood flow by detecting absorption patterns of hemoglobin and other chromophores. It is also employed in photodynamic therapy, where specific wavelengths activate photosensitive agents to target cancer cells. Industrially, near‑infrared imaging assists in quality control for agricultural products, polymers, and food items, enabling non‑destructive examination for moisture, fat, and protein content.

The terminology "lähiinfrapunavalon" is derived from the Finnish words for near‑infrared ("lähiinfrapuna") and light (“valo”), with the genitive suffix indicating possession or association. While the concept is internationally recognized, the term reflects Finland’s contribution to the terminology of photonics and its emphasis on concise compound word formation. In scientific literature, păhiinfrapunavalon is often abbreviated as NIR or λ‑NIR. The study of these wavelengths continues to advance fields such as remote sensing, telecommunications, and biomedical imaging, where its unique interaction with matter offers distinct advantages over visible or mid‑infrared light frequencies.