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infrared
(in-frә-red´)
denoting electromagnetic radiation of wavelength greater than that of the red end of the spectrum, being 0.75–1000 μm. Infrared rays are sometimes subdivided
into long-wave or far infrared (about 3.0–1000 μm) and short-wave or near infrared (about 0.75–3.0 μm). They are capable of penetrating body tissues to a depth of 1 cm. Infrared rays are used therapeutically
to promote muscle relaxation, to speed up the inflammatory process, and to increase circulation to a part of the body. See
also heat.

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