Is it possible hf=kT? Conditions Explained

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the equation hf = kT, where h is Planck's constant, f is frequency, k is Boltzmann's constant, and T is temperature. Participants explore the conditions under which this equality may hold and its implications in the context of thermal radiation and transitions between classical and quantum regimes.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the conditions under which hf = kT can be valid.
  • Another participant asserts that for any frequency f, there exists a temperature T that satisfies the equation.
  • A participant expresses uncertainty about the existence of such an equality, indicating they have not encountered it before.
  • It is noted that the equation is frequently used in discussions involving thermal radiation and that transitions often occur when hf = kBT, suggesting a shift from classical to quantum behavior.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the validity or commonality of the equation hf = kT, with some expressing uncertainty and others affirming its relevance in specific contexts.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights potential limitations in understanding the conditions required for the equality to hold, as well as the dependence on the definitions of the involved terms.

phyky
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is it possible hf=kT? Under what condtion, it will be the same? where h is Plack constant, f is frequency and k is Boltzmann constant, T is temperature
 
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For any frequency f, there is a T which satisfies the equation.
 
...edit:wait jtbell is this ever computed? I have never seen such an equality
 
Last edited:
HomogenousCow said:
...


edit:wait jtbell is this ever computed? I have never seen such an equality

It is used all the time. Any relation which involves thermal radation to/from a body held at a temperature T will involve thesee terms.
At hf=kBT there are often "transitions" of some sort. In some cases you have a transition from the classical (thermal) to quantum regime when hf=kBT
 

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