Power and temperature of stars

In summary, the temperature of Star 1 is 2.58 times higher than that of Star 2, based on its higher energy emission rate and larger radius.
  • #1
DracoMalfoy
88
4

Homework Statement


Star 1 emits energy at a rate that is 2 times that of Star 2. If Star 1 also has a radius that is 3 times larger than Star 2, how do the temperatures of the stars compare?

a. Star 1's temperature is 2.58 that of Star 2.

b. Star 1's temperature is 3.75 that of Star 2.

c. Star 1's temperature is 0.69 that of Star 2.

d. Star 1's temperature is 0.37 that of Star 2.

e. Star 1's temperature is 0.12 that of Star 2.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



This is supposed to be a physics class.. I am not sure why we were given this question. The teacher didnt even give us any equations for questions like this. so i have no idea,.. pls help
 
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  • #3
well Physics is about objects in the real world :biggrin:
jokes aside, a star emits electromagnetic radiation from its surface due to the temperature of the (very hot :smile:) material - similar to a hot filament in a light bulb.
hotter material will emit more radiation energy per unit time.
a larger star will have more surface area and thus also emit more energy per unit time.
so the amount of radiation energy emitted per unit time will depend on the temperature and the amount of surface area of the star.
 

1. What is the relationship between a star's power and its temperature?

The power of a star, or its luminosity, is directly related to its temperature. This means that as a star's temperature increases, its power also increases. This relationship is described by the Stefan-Boltzmann law, which states that the luminosity of a star is proportional to the fourth power of its temperature.

2. How does a star's temperature affect its color?

A star's temperature is a primary factor in determining its color. Hotter stars tend to emit bluer light, while cooler stars emit redder light. This is because hotter objects emit more energy at shorter wavelengths, while cooler objects emit more energy at longer wavelengths.

3. What is the main source of a star's power?

The main source of power for stars is nuclear fusion, which occurs in their cores. This process involves the fusion of hydrogen atoms to form helium, releasing large amounts of energy in the process. This energy is what makes stars shine and gives them their power.

4. Can a star's power and temperature change over time?

Yes, a star's power and temperature can change over time. As a star ages, it may run out of hydrogen fuel in its core and begin to fuse heavier elements, causing its temperature and power to increase. Conversely, a star may also cool and decrease in power as it reaches the end of its life cycle.

5. How do scientists measure the power and temperature of stars?

Scientists use a variety of techniques to measure the power and temperature of stars. One method is to analyze the spectrum of light emitted by a star, which can reveal its temperature through the presence and intensity of certain spectral lines. The power of a star can also be measured through its luminosity and distance from Earth using the inverse square law.

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