Lightning produces a maximum air temperature on the order of 9.1 103 K, whereas

Question

Lightning produces a maximum air temperature on the order of 9.1 103 K, whereas a nuclear explosion produces a temperature on the order of 9.8 106 K. Use Wien's displacement law to calculate the wavelength of the thermally-produced photons radiated with greatest intensity by each of these sources. Select the part of the electromagnetic spectrum where you would expect each to radiate most strongly.

(a) lightning max ____nm

It radiates most strongly in the ______part of the spectrum.

(Posible answers: gamma ray/x-ray, UV, visable, infrared, microwave, or radio wave)

(b) nuclear explosion max _____ pm

It radiates most strongly in the _______part of the spectrum.

(Same possible answers)

Explanation / Answer

Wien's displacement law is max = b / T, where max is the most common wavelength emitted.
b = 2.8977685×10^3

a. max = 0.00290 / (9.1*10^3) = 3.18*10^-7 =318 nm

It radiates most strongly in the UVpart of the spectrum.

b. max = 0.00290 / (9.8*10^6) = 295*10^-12 m =295 pm

It is approximately 295 pm or 1Angstrom, which are gamma rays.

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