1
$\begingroup$

This wikipedia article on the "cavity with a hole" model of a black body says:

The hole is not quite a perfect black surface — in particular, if the wavelength of the incident radiation is longer than the diameter of the hole, part will be reflected. Similarly, even in perfect thermal equilibrium, the radiation inside a finite-sized cavity will not have an ideal Planck spectrum for wavelengths comparable to or larger than the size of the cavity.

So I have 2 questions.:

Why is it that light of a wavelength larger than the hole will be reflected?

Why are wavelengths larger than the size of the cavity not emitted?

$\endgroup$

1 Answer 1

1
$\begingroup$

The propagation of an EM wave through a small hole decays very quickly, like $d^4$, so while it can propagate it's very unlikely. Same principle that makes the microwave mesh a good way for us not to be microwaved too.

Related question: Why are electromagnetic waves not able to pass through a hole with a diameter smaller than the wavelength?

$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.