Measuring Temperature using wavelenghts

In summary, the formula for finding the temperature of outer space through measuring electromagnetic radiation is based on the peak wavelength of the blackbody radiation spectrum, also known as Wien's law. The temperature is inversely proportional to the wavelength, and for the cosmic microwave background radiation, the peak wavelength is 1 mm, corresponding to a temperature of 2.7 K. More related equations can be found on the website provided by Claude.
  • #1
Aki
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I want to know the formula to find the temperature of outer space by measuring the wavelenghts of the electromagnetic radiation coming from that area. Does anyone know what I'm talking about?
 
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  • #2
If you're talking about the cosmic microwave background radiation, the relationship you're looking for comes from the peak wavelength of the blackbody radiation spectrum. (I think this is sometimes referred to as Wien's law, but not sure.) Basically, the temperature is inversely proportional to the wavelength. The microwave background has a peak wavelength of about 1 mm, which corresponds to a temperature of 2.7 K.
 
  • #3
The law is called Wein's Displacement Law.

This equation (as well as some other related equations) are presented here;

http://www.rumford.com/radiant/formulas.html

Claude.
 

1. How does measuring temperature using wavelengths work?

Measuring temperature using wavelengths involves using a device called a spectrophotometer to measure the intensity of wavelengths emitted by an object. The intensity of the wavelengths corresponds to the temperature of the object, as hotter objects emit more intense wavelengths than cooler objects.

2. What is the advantage of measuring temperature using wavelengths?

Measuring temperature using wavelengths allows for non-contact temperature measurement, which is useful for objects that are difficult or dangerous to touch. It also provides a more accurate and precise measurement compared to traditional methods.

3. Can temperature be measured using any type of wavelength?

Yes, temperature can be measured using a variety of wavelengths including infrared, visible light, and ultraviolet. However, infrared wavelengths are most commonly used for temperature measurement as they are emitted by all objects and are easily detected by spectrophotometers.

4. What factors can affect the accuracy of temperature measurement using wavelengths?

The accuracy of temperature measurement using wavelengths can be affected by factors such as the emissivity of the object (how well it emits infrared radiation), the distance between the object and the spectrophotometer, and any interference from other sources of infrared radiation.

5. How is temperature data collected and analyzed when using wavelengths?

Temperature data is collected by the spectrophotometer and displayed on a screen or saved for further analysis. The data can be analyzed using mathematical algorithms or compared to known temperature values to determine the temperature of the object being measured.

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