Stellar Astronomy - Measuring surface temp of the Sun

In summary, the conversation discusses determining the surface temperature of the Sun using the angular diameter of the Sun and the solar constant. The equation L=4π(R^2)σT^4 is mentioned, but the relationship between the solar constant and luminosity is unclear. It is suggested to multiply by the square of the distance to account for the total energy radiating from the Sun and to use Placks equation to calculate the temperature.
  • #1
PsychoDash
16
1

Homework Statement



"Determine a surface temperature value for the Sun from the angular diameter of the Sun and the solar constant."

Homework Equations



L=4π(R^2)σT^4

The Attempt at a Solution



At this point my only stumbling block is I don't understand the relationship between the solar constant and luminosity.

edit: Is it as simple as multiplying by the square of the distance?
 
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  • #2
The units of the different sizes tells a lot, actually.

Keep in mind that the solar constant on Earth is just a wee bit of the total energy radiating from the sun, that is the luminocity. Picture a large sphere with the distance between the sun and Earth as a radius; the solar constant applies to to everywhere in this sphere, so you must actually multiply with the area og this sphere to get the luminocity. Then you can use Placks equation to get the temperature.
 

1. What is the surface temperature of the Sun?

The surface temperature of the Sun is approximately 5,778 Kelvin (or 5,505 degrees Celsius or 9,941 degrees Fahrenheit).

2. How is the surface temperature of the Sun measured?

The surface temperature of the Sun is measured using a device called a pyrometer, which detects the infrared radiation emitted from the Sun's surface.

3. Why is it important to measure the surface temperature of the Sun?

Measuring the surface temperature of the Sun allows us to better understand the physical properties and behavior of our closest star. It also helps us to determine the energy output of the Sun and its impact on Earth's climate and environment.

4. Has the surface temperature of the Sun always remained the same?

No, the surface temperature of the Sun has not always remained the same. It has been gradually increasing over time and is expected to continue to do so as the Sun ages.

5. Can the surface temperature of the Sun change over short periods of time?

Yes, the surface temperature of the Sun can vary over short periods of time due to solar flares, sunspots, and other phenomena. However, these changes are relatively small and do not significantly impact the overall average surface temperature of the Sun.

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