The sun has a surface temperature of approximately 5,800 K.At what wavelength does the maximum energy radiated by the sun occur?
A) 5,800 nm
B) 300 nm
C) 174 nm
D) 520 nm
E) 3,000 nm

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Wien's Displacement Law, the peak wavelength (λ_max) is inversely proportional to the temperature (T) of a black body. λ_max = b/T, where b is Wien's constant (approximately 2,897,768 nm·K). For the sun's temperature of 5,800 K, λ_max ≈ 500 nm, which is closest to 520 nm.

The Sun Has a Surface Temperature of Approximately 5,800 K