Blackbody energy detector, from Liboff's QM

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on Problem 2.11 from Liboff's "Introductory Quantum Mechanics," which examines the optimal temperature of a detector measuring energy in a blackbody radiation cavity at temperature T. Participants conclude that the detector's temperature should be as low as possible, ideally T' = 0, to minimize thermal noise and enhance measurement accuracy. The detector operates by absorbing quantum energy and converting it into a measurable signal, emphasizing the importance of reducing interference from thermal fluctuations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of blackbody radiation principles
  • Familiarity with quantum mechanics concepts
  • Knowledge of thermal noise and its effects on measurements
  • Basic principles of energy detection in quantum systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of blackbody radiation and Planck's law
  • Study the effects of thermal noise on quantum measurements
  • Explore different types of quantum detectors and their operational principles
  • Learn about signal processing techniques to enhance measurement accuracy
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those studying quantum mechanics, as well as engineers and researchers involved in designing and optimizing quantum detectors.

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Homework Statement



Problem 2.11 of Liboff's Introductory Quantum Mechanics, 1st edition

Suppose that you are inside a blackbody radiation cavity which is at temperature T. Your job is to measure the energy in the radiation field in the frequency interval 10^{14} to 89 \times 10^{14} Hz. You have a detector that will do the job. For best results, should the temperature of the detector T' be T' > T, T' = T, T' < T, or T' = 0; or is the temperature of the detector irrelevant to the measurement?


Homework Equations


There seems not lots of calculation.


The Attempt at a Solution


I've no idea how such a detector works. Dose it look like a blackbody itself which absorbs the radiation in the cavity?
 
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Your attemp at a solution is halfway to the answer. Keep asking "what if."

The detectors work by absorbing a quantum and converting that event into a signal.
 
I think the temperature of the detector should be as low as possible, so that no thermal noise will disturb the observation. So it's T'=0. Is that right?
 

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