Thermal radiation question. Please help me explain the theory

In summary, the conversation discusses the concepts of thermal radiation and the theory behind it. The question asks for an explanation of the significance of the body emitting more energy than it absorbs, with the clarification that the skin is actually warmer than its surroundings. The conversation concludes with a confirmation that the principles of thermal radiation are well understood.
  • #1
madeeeeee
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Thermal radiation question. Please help me explain the theory!

I want to delete this post.
 
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  • #2


I agree with your answer to part a). And I think you've also written the right answer for part b): "I know that since the skin is colder than the surroundings, the body will emit more engery than it absorbs and it will cool." I think this is what the question is looking for when it asked for the significance.

EDIT: woops, it should be that the skin is warmer than its surroundings. I'm guessing you just wrote colder by accident, because it looks like you understand the principles pretty well.
 
  • #3


Yes, that was by accident!

Thanks for confirming!
 

Related to Thermal radiation question. Please help me explain the theory

1. What is thermal radiation?

Thermal radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation that is emitted by all objects with a temperature above absolute zero. It is also known as heat radiation and is a form of energy transfer that occurs through the emission of infrared radiation.

2. How does thermal radiation work?

Thermal radiation is produced when thermal energy from an object is converted into electromagnetic energy in the form of infrared radiation. This radiation can travel through a vacuum and does not require a medium to travel through, unlike convection and conduction.

3. What is the theory behind thermal radiation?

The theory behind thermal radiation is based on the principles of thermodynamics and electromagnetic radiation. It states that all objects with a temperature above absolute zero emit electromagnetic radiation, with the amount and wavelength of radiation depending on the temperature and properties of the object.

4. How does thermal radiation affect temperature?

Thermal radiation can both heat and cool objects, depending on the temperature difference between them. Objects with a higher temperature emit more thermal radiation, which can be absorbed by cooler objects, causing them to heat up. On the other hand, objects can also emit thermal radiation and lose heat, causing their temperature to decrease.

5. What are some real-life examples of thermal radiation?

Some common examples of thermal radiation in everyday life include feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, using a heater to warm up a room, or using a microwave to heat up food. Thermal radiation is also used in industrial processes, such as in furnaces and ovens, and is an important factor in climate change and the Earth's energy balance.

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