Temperature of a star via its flux

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the temperature of a star based on its flux measurements at two wavelengths: 450 nm and 650 nm. The measured flux at 450 nm is 1.3 times that at 650 nm. The relevant equation used is the Planck's law for monochromatic flux, specifically the formula 2πhv³/c², along with the relation x = hv/kT. The user struggles to find the correct temperature that satisfies the flux ratio, indicating a need for clarity on converting wavelengths to frequency and correctly applying the equations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Planck's law for blackbody radiation
  • Familiarity with the concepts of flux and temperature in astrophysics
  • Knowledge of the relationship between wavelength and frequency
  • Basic proficiency in algebra and solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of Planck's law in astrophysics
  • Learn how to convert wavelength (nm) to frequency (Hz) using the formula v = c/λ
  • Explore the concept of blackbody radiation and its significance in stellar temperature calculations
  • Investigate the use of numerical methods for solving equations involving multiple variables
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in stellar physics and temperature calculations based on flux measurements.

cwolfx2
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Homework Statement



What is the temperature of a star if the flux at 450 nm is measured to be 1.3 times the flux at 650 nm

Homework Equations



To determine monochromatic flux I use:

2πhv3/c2
ex-1

x= hv/kT

The Attempt at a Solution



So basically I plug in the 450 or 640 nm wave lengths for v and using the other constants I try to guess a temperature that when I combine the individual monochromatic fluxes, they will equal 1.3

However I am using values from 5-50000 kelvin for my temperature, and I don't seem to be getting closer to 1.3, what am i missing?
 
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So I've tried this: v3(ehv'/kt)-1= 1.3
(ehv/kt-1) v'3

where as the ' notes the other wavelength..Also how do i turn the nm into frequency?
 

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