Physics
Physics
Problem
A blackbody’s temperature is increased from to . Which of the following best describes how its peak wavelength changes? a) It doubles. b) It remains unchanged. c) It halves. d) It quadruples.Intuitive explanation
The key here is Wien's displacement law, which links a blackbody's temperature directly to the wavelength at which it radiates most intensely. Since peak wavelength is inversely proportional to temperature, doubling the temperature doesn't double the peak wavelength—it cuts it in half. This is why hotter objects shift toward shorter wavelengths (bluer light), while cooler ones emit at longer wavelengths (redder light).
Intuitive explanation
The key here is Wien's displacement law, which links a blackbody's temperature directly to the wavelength at which it radiates most intensely. Since peak wavelength is inversely proportional to temperature, doubling the temperature doesn't double the peak wavelength—it cuts it in half. This is why hotter objects shift toward shorter wavelengths (bluer light), while cooler ones emit at longer wavelengths (redder light).