Black/white radiator vs white/black wall: radiation

In summary, the question at hand is which situation is more efficient in terms of maximum heat transfer from the radiator to the wall - a black radiator in a room with white walls or a white radiator in a room with black walls. The conversation also touches on the dominance of convection and the importance of specifying the desired outcome of the heat transfer.
  • #1
Jones20
2
0
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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  • #2
Efficient for what?
 
  • #3
Efficient in terms of maximum heat transfer from the radiator to the wall. Sorry I forgot to mention that.
 
  • #4
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(??))
 
  • #5
,

In terms of radiation, the most efficient situation would be Situation B, with a white radiator in a room with black walls. This is because black surfaces absorb more radiation than white surfaces, meaning that the black walls in Situation B would absorb more of the heat radiated from the white radiator, resulting in a more efficient transfer of heat to the room. In contrast, in Situation A, the white walls would reflect more of the heat radiated from the black radiator, resulting in a less efficient transfer of heat to the room. However, it's important to note that convection is still the dominant factor in heat transfer from a radiator, so the overall efficiency of both situations would be similar.
 

1. What is the difference between a black radiator and a white radiator?

A black radiator absorbs more heat and emits it at a higher rate compared to a white radiator. This is due to the difference in color which affects the amount of radiation emitted.

2. Which color radiator is more energy-efficient?

A white radiator is more energy-efficient as it reflects more heat back into the room, while a black radiator absorbs and emits more heat, requiring more energy to maintain the same temperature.

3. Does the color of the wall behind the radiator affect its performance?

Yes, the color of the wall behind the radiator can affect its performance. A white wall will reflect more heat back into the room, while a black wall will absorb more heat, potentially causing the room to feel colder.

4. Is it better to have a black radiator against a white wall or a white radiator against a black wall?

It is better to have a black radiator against a white wall. This combination will maximize the amount of heat reflected back into the room and maintain a more comfortable temperature.

5. Can the color of the radiator and wall affect the overall heating of a room?

Yes, the color of the radiator and wall can affect the overall heating of a room. The color combination of black radiator and white wall will provide the most efficient heating, while a black wall and white radiator will result in less efficient heating.

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