PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics 2: Algebra-based · Modern Physics · Modern Physics
Problem
Two identical blackbody bulbs are observed. Bulb A’s intensity spectrum peaks at a wavelength of 450 nm, whereas Bulb B’s spectrum peaks at 675 nm. Which statement best describes the relative temperatures of the two bulbs?
(a) Bulb B is hotter than Bulb A because its peak occurs at the longer wavelength.
(b) Bulbs A and B have the same temperature because they both emit continuous blackbody spectra.
(c) Bulb A is hotter than Bulb B because its peak occurs at the shorter wavelength.
(d) The temperatures cannot be compared without knowing the bulbs’ surface areas.