Black Body radiation and thermal equilibrium

In summary, black body radiation is the thermal radiation emitted by an object that perfectly absorbs all radiation that falls on it. It is caused by the random thermal motion of atoms and molecules within the object. Thermal equilibrium is a state where the temperature of a system remains constant and there is no net flow of heat between the system and its surroundings. It is important in relation to black body radiation because it results in a stable temperature. The temperature of an object affects its black body radiation, with higher temperatures resulting in more and longer wavelength radiation being emitted.
  • #1
Joker93
504
37
Wikipedia writes: "Black-body radiation is the type of electromagnetic radiation within or surrounding a body in thermodynamic equilibrium with its environment". Why does it write "thermodynamic equilibrium"? If it is not in a thermodynamic equilibrium, then what changes as far as the absorption and emmition of light go?
 
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  • #2
Net absorbtion/emission.
 
  • #3
Bystander said:
Net absorbtion/emission.
In what way does it change?
 

FAQ: Black Body radiation and thermal equilibrium

What is black body radiation?

Black body radiation is the thermal radiation emitted by a hypothetical object that perfectly absorbs all radiation that falls on it.

What causes black body radiation?

Black body radiation is caused by the random thermal motion of atoms and molecules within the object.

What is thermal equilibrium?

Thermal equilibrium is a state in which the temperature of a system remains constant and there is no net flow of heat between the system and its surroundings.

Why is thermal equilibrium important in relation to black body radiation?

Thermal equilibrium is important in relation to black body radiation because it is the state in which the energy absorbed by the object is equal to the energy emitted, resulting in a stable temperature.

How does the temperature of an object affect its black body radiation?

The temperature of an object directly affects its black body radiation, as the amount and wavelength of radiation emitted increases with higher temperatures.

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