Black/white radiator vs white/black wall: radiation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the efficiency of heat transfer via radiation between a radiator and walls of different colors. Participants explore two scenarios: a black radiator in a room with white walls versus a white radiator in a room with black walls, focusing specifically on radiation rather than convection.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Jones poses a question about which situation is more efficient in terms of maximum heat transfer from the radiator to the wall, specifically considering radiation.
  • One participant questions the definition of "efficient," prompting clarification on the intended meaning related to heat transfer.
  • Another participant reiterates the focus on maximum heat transfer and implies that the goal may not be to warm the walls.
  • There is a suggestion that the question may resemble a test question, indicating a potential skepticism about the inquiry's intent.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have not reached a consensus on the efficiency of the two scenarios, and the discussion remains unresolved with differing interpretations of efficiency.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully explored the assumptions underlying the efficiency of heat transfer in terms of radiation, nor have they defined the conditions under which the efficiency is being evaluated.

Jones20
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Hi,

Situation A: Black radiator in a room with white walls.
Situation B: White radiator in a room with black walls.

Which one is the most efficient situation?

I know that convection is dominant if you look at a radiator, but i would like to know the answer in terms of radiation.

Thank you :)
Jones
 
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Efficient for what?
 
Efficient in terms of maximum heat transfer from the radiator to the wall. Sorry I forgot to mention that.
 
Jones20 said:
Efficient in terms of maximum heat transfer from the radiator to the wall. Sorry I forgot to mention that.
I assume that you don't want the walls to get warm?
This reads like a test question. What are your thoughts on the matter? (Before we kick in with a free answer to your homework(??))
 

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