Reflection, Absorption and Transmission of Light and Infrared Radiation through Plant Tissues

Abstract

Radiation emitted by the sun is not only the basis of life but also of interpretation of photos and several other remote sensing images. A good understanding of the pathway of the radiation through the canopy of plants (the green mantle) is necessary for a good explanation and interpretation of the differences that can be observed. The studies on this subject, making use of spectrometers both in the laboratory and the field, reveal that in publications by practical users of different types of film and filter combinations, unproven hypothesis have too often been perpetuated, especially where use of infrared such as in false colour film, was concerned (remote science fiction). It would be too great an effort to discuss (or even to mention) here all the publications dealing with the use of different film and filter combinations and the supposed influence of leaves of different plants, different development stages, differences in health conditions, etc.