Wien’s displacement law states that the wavelength at which the radiated power is a maximum for a blackbody varies inversely with the temperature. This relationship is important in astrophysics for determining the temperature of stars. The objective of this note is to show that in teaching introductory (calculus-based) or intermediate physics, instead of simply stating Wien’s displacement law, instructors can ask students to derive if from Planck’s radiation law. A numerical solution to a transcendental equation is required, easily accomplished using a symbolic math program such as Maple or Mathematica.

Topics
Blackbody, Thermodynamic states and processes, Astrophysics, Complex functions, Education, Teaching
This content is only available via PDF.
© 2002 American Association of Physics Teachers.
2002
American Association of Physics Teachers
AAPT members receive access to The Physics Teacher and the American Journal of Physics as a member benefit. To learn more about this member benefit and becoming an AAPT member, visit the Joining AAPT page.