B Infrared Detectors & The 2nd Law of Thermodynamics

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around reconciling the behavior of infrared photodetectors, specifically HgCdTe, with the 2nd Law of Thermodynamics. Participants question how these detectors can generate current from black body radiation emitted by room temperature water (300K) without an applied bias voltage, suggesting a potential conflict with thermodynamic principles. It is noted that while the detectors can respond to infrared radiation, the energy generated does not violate the 2nd Law, as it requires an external light source to produce measurable current. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying physics of photodetectors and their operational conditions. Ultimately, the consensus is that the 2nd Law remains intact despite the intriguing behavior of these infrared detectors.
  • #151
Shining a laser at an underwater photodiode to produce power violates no laws of thermodynamics. I could run solar panels in my swimming pool if I really wanted to. Why do you wish to do this?
This is quite different from your initial scenario.
 
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  • #152
hutchphd said:
Shining a laser at an underwater photodiode to produce power violates no laws of thermodynamics. I could run solar panels in my swimming pool if I really wanted to. Why do you wish to do this?
This is quite different from your initial scenario.

So now I make a really big detector and point it at a 300k lake surface, to heat the 320k water with the 3.5 micrometer photon flux off the 300k surface, with no laser.
 
  • #153
This thread has run its course. You've been repeatedly told that what you suggest isn't possible and you're chasing your tail (and getting others to chase it) making little changes to your scenario to try to keep it alive. Thread closed.
 
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