1
$\begingroup$

Can the temperature of a black body be defined without using radiation? Energy spectrum of black body is a function of temperature so when we say a given blackbody is at temperature $T$ we measure the energy of radiation (ultimately photons) to assign $T$ using following kind of graph enter image description here

In other words, is it possible to operationally define the temperature of a black body without going through the route of detecting photons?

$\endgroup$
1

1 Answer 1

2
$\begingroup$

Temperature is defined thermodynamically as the energy change as the entropy changes: $$T=\left( \frac{dU}{dS}\right)_{P,V},$$ entirely independently of radiation. To operationally measure a temperature of a body without measuring photons you will have to use a thermometer or something similar.

$\endgroup$

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.