An Introduction to Modern Astrophysics · Problem 9.8

The Interiors of Stars — Carroll & Ostlie

Physics — Astrophysics · specific-intensity-optical-depth

Problem

In Example 9.2.3, suppose that only two measurements of the specific intensity,

I_1

and

I_2

, are available, made at angles

\theta_1

and

\theta_2

. Determine expressions for the intensity

I_{\lambda,0}

of the light above Earth's atmosphere and for the vertical optical depth of the atmosphere,

\tau_{\lambda,0}

, in terms of these two measurements.