Current CMB photon number density?

In summary, based on the information provided, we can estimate the current number of cosmic microwave background (CMB) photons per cubic meter by dividing the total energy density (7.56x10-16T4 in J/m3) by the mean photon energy of 2.7kT. This relationship can be inverted to find the number of BB photons in a thermalized sample space. However, it should be noted that this calculation may not necessarily yield the exact number of photons, as there may be other factors at play.
  • #1
denseguy
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Question
Estimate the current number of cosmic microwave background (CMB) photons there are now, per cubic meter, given that the mean photon energy of a blackbody distribution is about 2.70kT.

Method

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Planck_function" gives the energy density (i.e. energy per unit volume) per unit wavelength interval.

The http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stefan-Boltzmann_law" is derived by integrating Planck's law, to give the total energy density (over all wavelengths).

The photon number density (photons per cubic metre) can be found by (a) taking the total energy density (from the Stefan-Boltzmann Law) and dividing it by (b) the typical photon energy.

Problem

It looks like the Stefan–Boltzmann law should help, but it requires a temperature, T, whereas I'm given the mean photon energy in kT.

Planck's law includes a term for kT, but results in the energy density per unit wavelength.

I'm given the mean photon energy, 2.70kT. Is this necessarily the same as the typical photon energy?

I'm obviously missing a crucial next step, can anyone help?
 
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  • #2
The average photon energy is in fact 2.7kT (I know it sounds a bit high). The number of BB photons in a thermalized sample space (BB cavity) multiplied by 2.7 kT is the total photon energy of that sample space. This relationship can be inverted in the expected way.

In SI units, the energy density is 7.56x10-16T4 in J/m3.
 

What is the current CMB photon number density?

The current CMB (Cosmic Microwave Background) photon number density is approximately 410 photons per cubic centimeter. This number has been measured by various experiments, such as the Planck satellite and the Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP).

How does the CMB photon number density change over time?

The CMB photon number density has been decreasing over time due to the expansion of the universe. As the universe expands, the photons get more spread out, resulting in a decrease in number density. However, the CMB itself remains at a nearly uniform temperature due to the phenomenon of cosmic redshift.

What is the significance of the CMB photon number density?

The CMB photon number density is an important parameter in cosmology as it provides valuable information about the early universe. It is a remnant of the Big Bang and its characteristics, such as its temperature and number density, can help us understand the evolution of the universe and the formation of structures within it.

How is the CMB photon number density measured?

The CMB photon number density can be measured indirectly by studying the anisotropies in the CMB radiation. These anisotropies, or tiny temperature fluctuations, are caused by variations in the CMB photon number density across the sky. By analyzing these fluctuations, scientists can determine the current value of the CMB photon number density.

What are the implications of changes in the CMB photon number density?

Changes in the CMB photon number density can have significant implications in our understanding of the universe's evolution. For example, if the CMB photon number density is found to be significantly different from what is predicted by current theories, it could indicate the need for a new model to explain the origins and evolution of the universe.

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