How can you calculate the power intercepted by a planet from a distant star?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the power intercepted by a planet from a distant star using Stefan's law. The total power output of the star is determined by the formula P = σ * 4πR² * T⁴, where σ is Stefan's constant, R is the star's radius, and T is its surface temperature. The power intercepted by the planet is derived from the flux at the planet's distance, given by Φ = P/(4πd²), and the area subtended by the planet, calculated as Φ * πr². This approach assumes isotropic power distribution from the star.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Stefan-Boltzmann Law
  • Familiarity with concepts of flux and power in physics
  • Knowledge of spherical geometry and area calculations
  • Basic grasp of isotropic radiation principles
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Stefan-Boltzmann Law in detail
  • Explore calculations involving flux and power distribution
  • Research spherical geometry applications in astrophysics
  • Investigate isotropic radiation and its implications in astrophysical contexts
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in understanding stellar radiation and planetary interactions.

haki
Messages
161
Reaction score
0
Hi,

I found one very interesting physics problem but I have no idea how to solve it.

Lets say we have a star with radius R and the surface temperature T. Now we wish to know, what is the ratio between the total power output of the star and the power that the distant planet receives from that star. The planet has a radius r and the distance between the center of the objects is d. We idealise the problem and say that both object have e=1.

I know that the trick is in the Stefan's law. I can calculate the power output of the star by

P=Stefan's constant*area of a spheare of radius R*temperature of star T on the 4th power,

now the funny thing is how can you calculate how much of that power is intercepted by the planet?

Any help would be apprichiated.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Got an idea. Maybe the correct way to go is by saying that the ratio

area of a spheare of radius d(distance from the two object) / half the area of the spheare of radius r(radius of the planet) = total output of the sun / power gotten by the planet?
 
Assume the power P of the star is isotropic, i.e. same in all directions.

At the distance R from the star, i.e. the radius of the planet's orbit, the flux, \Phi (power per unit area) = P/(4\piR2).

If the planet has radius r, then the fraction of power intercepted is simply the product of the power and the ratio of the areas, or the product of the flux and area subtended by the planet, i.e.

\Phi * \pi\,r^2
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K