Final answer:
The distance at which an infrared lamp should be placed from the skin depends on the lamp's intensity and individual skin sensitivity. Always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and consult a healthcare professional.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distance at which an infrared lamp should be placed from the skin typically depends on various factors, including the intensity of the lamp, the treatment time, and individual skin sensitivity. It is always recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and the advice of a healthcare professional when using an infrared lamp for therapeutic purposes. The skin is a good absorber of infrared radiation, with a high emissivity, making it sensitive to heat from sources such as infrared lamps. Therefore, maintaining a safe distance is important to avoid overheating and potential burns.
To answer the question with respect to calculations – if an infrared lamp is positioned too closely, it could deliver an intensity that could increase the temperature of the skin too quickly, exceeding the skin's ability to dissipate the heat effectively, leading to potential discomfort or burns.