1. What does it mean if we say something radiates as a "blackbody"? Why is the word "black" used?
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2. Classical physics predicts that the spectral density, which is the energy per volume per unit frequency interval, follows the dashed blue curve shown in the figure (graphed as the function R(w)). On the other hand, statistical and quantum physics predicts that the spectral density function follows the solid red curve (graphed as the function u(w)).
The statistical physics prediction turns out to be correct, and this was "the beginning of the end" of classical mechanics as applied to such systems.
Look at the figure, and explain what kind of radiation we would see if the classical description were correct, and we looked in a furnace. What appears to be wrong with the classical description (R(w)), and how does the statistical/quantum description (u(w)) fix the situation?
3. As the temperature T of a blackbody is increased, what happens to the frequency wmax at which the spectral density is a maximum?
Check the correct answer: a) The frequency wmax increases.b) The frequency wmax decreases.c) The frequency wmax doesn't change, but the area under the curve increases.d) The frequency wmax doesn't change, but the area under the curve decreases. Below is a space for your thoughts, including general comments about today's assignment (what seemed impossible, what reading didn't make sense, what we should spend class time on, what was "cool", etc.): You may change your mind as often as you wish. When you are satisfied with your responses click the SUBMIT button.
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