Thermal imaging can be used on a large scale.
The difference between infrared and thermal imaging is mostly a matter of range; both techniques rely upon the use of special equipment to detect images based on the heat given off by subjects. However, infrared technology is only operational within a specific, narrow range. Cameras and night vision goggles are among the technologies that utilize this science.
The Method
Thermal imaging and infrared imaging both examine the infrared spectrum; the difference is that two different techniques are used for viewing these types of images. Thermography uses digitally processed waves to get specific views of objects based on their infrared signatures. The term infrared, on the other hand, refers to the use of IR film; this method relies on capturing energy that then reacts with film processing chemicals.
Range
The "range" of thermal imaging and infrared photography is described in terms of the parts of the IR spectrum that can be examined through their use. The range that can be seen in an infrared photo is much smaller than that which can be detected through thermal imaging. The best infrared film should show the parts of the spectrum between 700-1200 nm, while thermography is able to record images with registered infrared radiation up to 10,000 nm.
Thermal Uses
Thermal imaging is used in a much wider variety of applications than infrared photography. Thermal imaging is often used in the medical industry to help doctors get a clear picture of what is happening inside a patient's body and in industrial applications to measure the heat distribution of certain materials; the PC industry, in particular, uses this technology. It also has military, security and law enforcement applications.
Infrared Uses
Previously, infrared film was widely used, but the constant improvement of thermography devices has rendered it obsolete in certain fields. IR film was once used to conduct military surveillance, but that has not been the practice for many years. It does, however, still have military applications; IR photographs are very accurate at displaying, for example, the depths of a body of water, which is important during reconnaissance. IR film also allows a photographer to capture images in the dark. It also sees industrial and biological use, particularly for examining plants in order to inspect for disease.
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