Thermodynamic Derivation of Wien's Law?

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The discussion focuses on deriving Wien's law, which states that the product of the peak wavelength and absolute temperature is constant, using a purely thermodynamic approach rather than Planck's formula. Participants mention that the derivation involves concepts like radiation pressure and the first law of thermodynamics. A reference is made to a thermodynamic derivation found in "Heat and Thermodynamics" by Roberts and Miller, which includes complex elements like cavity expansion and Doppler shifts. The conversation highlights the rarity of such derivations in modern textbooks, which typically rely on Planck's law. The inquiry emphasizes a desire for a simpler, thermodynamic explanation of Wien's law.
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Can someone tell me how I can derive Wien's law, i.e.,

\lambda_{max} T = constant

where \lambda_{max} is the peak wavelength and T is the absolute temperature of the black body, using the equation,

P=\frac{U^{*}}{3}

where U^{*} is the energy density.

Note: I'm not looking for the derivation using Plank's formula. I'm looking for a purely thermodynamic derivation.

Thanks in advance!
 
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what is P?
 
There is a thermodynamic derivation of Wien's Law in Heat and Thermodynamics by Roberts and Miller. It invokes considering slow expansion of a cavity, Doppler shift of reflected radiation, and so on. It is long and complicated, Maybe slicker derivations exist.
These day, most textbook writers don't bother with this sort of derivation, but derive it from Planck's law. But I know you don't want this.
 
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MikeyW said:
what is P?

P is the Radiation Pressure. It relates to the first law of termodynamics definition of work, PdV. Basically, I'm looking to derive Wien's law from the first law.
 

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