Can You "See" Thermal Radiation?

Use this hands-on activity to demonstrate infrared and thermal radiation. Learners will cover their eyes or wear blindfolds and then move their hands to sense the infrared heat coming from a ceramic heater nearby. Just like snakes that can "see" thermal radiation to detect their prey, learners will detect infrared by measuring the heating of their palms when the infrared strikes the skin. Note: the cost of a ceramic reptile heater and metal lamp stand are not included in the cost of materials.