HELP Boltzmann law in terms of classical physics?

In summary, the Stefan-Boltzmann law states that the energy radiated by a black body radiator per second per unit area is directly proportional to the fourth power of the absolute temperature. This law can be derived from classical physics and bears the name of Ludwig Boltzmann, but a theoretical value for the Stefan-Boltzmann constant cannot be found without the use of a quantum hypothesis.
  • #1
P-Jay1
32
0
The Stefan-Boltzmann law is as follows: The energy radiated by a black body radiater per second per unit area is directly proportional to the fourth power of the absolute temperature.

Equation: I = σT^4

Is it possible to explain this law by means of classical physics only? If so, please explain.
 
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  • #2
What's your answer to the question ? Yes or no ?
 
  • #3
I would say no since the Stefan-Boltzmann law is derived from Planck's law of radiation which was found by Planck using a quantum hypothesis. Or really a bit psuedo-quantum, he didn't realize it himself at the time that he had more or less revolutionised physics.
 
  • #5
That's interesting, I was not aware that you could derive the Stefan-Boltzmann law classically, without the Planck law of radiation. Well then, the answer is as bigubau noted obivously yes to your question - the law can be derived classically.

However, it seems that a theoretical value of the Stefan-Boltzmann constant [tex]\sigma[/tex] can not be found without the aid of a quantum hypothesis (Planck's radiation law). It can only be measured.
 
  • #6
Thanks guys
 

Related to HELP Boltzmann law in terms of classical physics?

1. What is the Boltzmann Law in terms of classical physics?

The Boltzmann Law, also known as the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution, describes the probability of finding a particle in a given energy state in a classical gas. It states that the number of particles in a particular energy state is proportional to the energy of that state and is given by the equation: n(E) = Ae^(-E/kT), where n(E) is the number of particles, E is the energy, k is the Boltzmann constant, and T is the temperature.

2. How is the Boltzmann Law used in classical physics?

The Boltzmann Law is used to calculate the probability distribution of particles in a classical gas at a given temperature. It is also used to derive other thermodynamic properties, such as the average energy and heat capacity of the gas.

3. What does the Boltzmann Law tell us about the behavior of particles in a gas?

The Boltzmann Law tells us that the higher the energy of a particle, the less likely it is to be found in a given energy state. This means that particles in a gas tend to have a wide range of energies, with fewer particles having higher energies.

4. How does the Boltzmann Law relate to the concept of entropy?

The Boltzmann Law is closely related to the concept of entropy, which is a measure of the disorder or randomness of a system. The law states that as the temperature of a gas increases, the entropy also increases, as there are more possible energy states for the particles to occupy.

5. What are some real-world applications of the Boltzmann Law in classical physics?

The Boltzmann Law has many applications in classical physics, including in the study of gases, liquids, and solids. It is used to understand the behavior of particles in a variety of systems, such as in chemical reactions, phase transitions, and heat transfer. It also plays a crucial role in the development of statistical mechanics and thermodynamics.

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