What is the surface temperature of a star that has a peak wavelength of 290 nm?
A) 1,000 K
B) 2,000 K
C) 5,000 K
D) 10,000 K
E) 100,000 K

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The peak wavelength of a star's radiation spectrum is related to its surface temperature by Wien's law, which states:

λmaxT = 2.898 × 10^−3 m K

where λmax is the peak wavelength in meters and T is the surface temperature in kelvin. Converting 290 nm to meters gives:

λmax = 290 × 10^−9 m

Substituting into the equation and solving for T gives:

T = 2.898 × 10^−3 m K / (290 × 10^−9 m) = 10,000 K

Therefore, the surface temperature of the star is 10,000 K, which corresponds to answer choice D.

What Is the Surface Temperature of a Star That Has