Figure 16-15 of Universe, 11th ed., shows images of the Sun at different wavelengths that correspond to different temperatures. What relationship between wavelength and temperature is being used here?

Question

Figure 16-15 of Universe, 11th ed., shows images of the Sun at different wavelengths that correspond to different temperatures. What relationship between wavelength and temperature is being used here?
​
 ​

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The images of the Sun at different wavelengths are showing the relationship between wavelength and temperature as described by Wien's law, which states that the peak wavelength of radiation emitted by a blackbody is inversely proportional to its temperature. As the temperature of the Sun varies across its surface, different wavelengths correspond to different temperatures.

Figure 16-15 of Universe, 11th Ed