Some Astronomy/Cosmology Questions

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on calculating the temperature of a star using the equation λmax = Å, specifically through Wien's Displacement Law. Participants clarify that λmax refers to the wavelength at which the intensity of emitted radiation is highest, not a maximum wavelength. The correct approach involves using the relationship between temperature and wavelength to derive the star's temperature. Resources such as HyperPhysics are recommended for further understanding of these concepts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Wien's Displacement Law
  • Basic knowledge of wavelength and intensity in astrophysics
  • Familiarity with the concept of thermal radiation
  • Ability to interpret scientific equations and symbols
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Wien's Displacement Law in detail
  • Explore the relationship between temperature and wavelength in thermal radiation
  • Study the concept of blackbody radiation and its significance in astrophysics
  • Visit HyperPhysics for comprehensive explanations and examples
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Astronomy students, astrophysics enthusiasts, educators teaching stellar physics, and anyone interested in understanding star temperature calculations.

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I hope this is the right place to post this! I think so. I'd really be grateful if anyone can give me any information about this--especially help with the math involved.

Homework Statement


How to calculate the temperature of a star using--

Homework Equations



λmax = Å

The Attempt at a Solution


Absolutely none, I'm completely lost. :blushing: I'd really like to understand the concept, but I don't know where to begin at all!

Thanks in advance!
 
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stardrop said:
I hope this is the right place to post this! I think so. I'd really be grateful if anyone can give me any information about this--especially help with the math involved.

Homework Statement


How to calculate the temperature of a star using--


Homework Equations



λmax = Å


The Attempt at a Solution


Absolutely none, I'm completely lost. :blushing: I'd really like to understand the concept, but I don't know where to begin at all!

Thanks in advance!

What does this mean?

"How to calculate the temperature of a star using--"

And what does this mean?

λmax = Å

Are you saying the maximum wavelength emitted by the star is one angstrom? I seriously doubt that. If you know something about the wavelength that has the highest intensity, then the problem can be solved.
 
I meant how do you calculate the temperature of a star using λmax = Å. This is what my teacher wrote down on the board but he didn't explain it any further. I think maybe what he wrote means what equation do you use if the information you have is λmax IN Å, but I'm not sure. That's only what would make sense to me, a complete beginner.

"If you know something about the wavelength that has the highest intensity, then the problem can be solved." Can you tell me where I can find out more about this?

Thanks for your help!
 
I assume it means λmax = 1 Angstrom = 0.1nm. If you're just given a wavelength you can only use wien's displacement law.
 
Thanks so much! That's the answer I was looking for; now I'll read more about Wien's Displacement Law.
 
stardrop said:
I meant how do you calculate the temperature of a star using λmax = Å. This is what my teacher wrote down on the board but he didn't explain it any further. I think maybe what he wrote means what equation do you use if the information you have is λmax IN Å, but I'm not sure. That's only what would make sense to me, a complete beginner.

"If you know something about the wavelength that has the highest intensity, then the problem can be solved." Can you tell me where I can find out more about this?

Thanks for your help!

Max has given you the right direction. You can find more about it here

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/Hbase/wien.html#c2

The site uses λpeak rather than λmax, which is a much better description of the wavelength of interest. There is no maximum wavelength, but there is a wavelength that corresponds to the maximum in the intensity or power density curve.
 
Thank you! Thanks for the extended explanation and the link--both were very helpful! (:
 

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