Discrete vs Continuous Spectra in Blackbody Radiation?

In summary, the article discusses the theoretical model behind blackbody spectra, specifically focusing on standing waves in a cavity. These standing waves occur at specific, discrete wavelengths and could potentially result in a blackbody emitting in a discrete spectrum under certain conditions. The article also mentions the differences between Planck and Rayleigh-Jeans laws in relation to thermodynamic equilibrium and equipartition of energy.
  • #1
greswd
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I was reading this article which talks about the theoretical model behind blackbody spectra:
http://www.cv.nrao.edu/course/astr534/BlackBodyRad.html

At the start, it mentions standing waves in a cavity. Standing waves in this model consist of an integer number of wavelengths. The standing waves can only occur at specific, discrete wavelengths.

Therefore, could a blackbody emit in a discrete spectrum under certain conditions?
 
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  • #2
If you want to discuss Planck vs Rayleigh-Jeans, take note that Planck's difference only comes in at this section:

James J. Condon said:
In thermodynamic equilibrium at temperature T, equipartition of energy implies that each mode has average energy <E>=kT according to the classical Boltzmann law (but not according to quantum mechanics).
 

1. What is the difference between discrete and continuous spectra in blackbody radiation?

In blackbody radiation, discrete spectra refer to the emission of light at specific wavelengths, while continuous spectra refer to the emission of light at all wavelengths. This difference is due to the energy levels of the atoms or molecules involved in the radiation process.

2. How are discrete and continuous spectra observed in blackbody radiation?

Discrete spectra can be observed as distinct lines in a spectrum, while continuous spectra appear as a smooth, unbroken curve. This can be seen in experiments using prisms or diffraction gratings to separate the different wavelengths of light emitted by a blackbody.

3. Why does blackbody radiation exhibit both discrete and continuous spectra?

Blackbody radiation is produced by the thermal energy of a body, which is constantly being absorbed and emitted by atoms or molecules within the body. The energy levels of these atoms and molecules determine the wavelengths at which they emit light, resulting in both discrete and continuous spectra.

4. How do discrete and continuous spectra relate to the temperature of a blackbody?

The temperature of a blackbody affects the intensity and distribution of the emitted radiation, but it does not change the wavelengths at which the discrete and continuous spectra occur. However, at higher temperatures, the intensity of both types of spectra increases.

5. What are the practical applications of studying discrete and continuous spectra in blackbody radiation?

The study of discrete and continuous spectra in blackbody radiation has many practical applications, including understanding the thermal properties of materials, developing more efficient lighting sources, and studying the composition of stars and other celestial bodies.

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