Is the Heat Capacity of Thermal Radiation at Constant Pressure Infinite?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the concept that the heat capacity of thermal radiation at constant pressure (Cp) is infinite. The argument presented states that since pressure (p) is a function of temperature (T) and vice versa, any change in pressure leads to no change in temperature, resulting in an infinite Cp. This implies that energy changes do not affect temperature when pressure is constant, suggesting thermal radiation behaves like a heat reservoir. Additionally, there is a consideration of how to calculate specific heat in a reflective boundary condition scenario, indicating a need for clarity on energy release in a defined volume. The conversation highlights the complexities of thermal radiation and its implications for thermodynamic principles.
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we need to show that the heat capacity of thermal radiation at constant pressure is infinity. I have an argument, but am not sure if it works. we know that Cp = dQ/dT at constant p, but we also know that p is a function of T only, and therefore that T is a function of P only, therefore if dP=0,dT=0, so the denominator of Cp is zero and Cp is infinite. we are then asked to interpret this. I think it means that adding energy or subtracting it makes no difference to temperature if the pressure is constant, i.e thermal radiation acts as a heat resevoir at constant P, or does it mean that we can't add/subtract energy at constant temperature?

thanks
 
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Similar problem here. I'm conflicted by considering the release of energy into a volume of space. If you assume reflective boundary conditions, then I think the space could be taken to have some specific heat. I would like to know how to effectively calculate that.
 
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