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⚛️ Physics  ·  Electromagnetic Waves  ·  NEET & JEE

In the Sun, energy reaches Earth as visible light but is re-emitted as infrared. The peak wavelength (λ_max) for a blackbody at 5800 K (Sun) by Wien's law is:

Answer: 500 nm (visible).

  • A 500 nm (visible)
  • B 10000 nm (IR)
  • C 100 nm (UV)
  • D 1 mm (microwave)

Correct answer: A. 500 nm (visible)

Explanation: Wien's displacement law: λ_max T = 2.898 × 10⁻³ m·K. For T = 5800 K: λ_max = 2.898×10⁻³/5800 ≈ 500 nm (visible light). Earth at 300 K emits at λ_max ≈ 10 μm (infrared).

Electromagnetic Wave: E ⊥ B ⊥ Direction of TravelpropagationE (electric field, vertical plane)B (magnetic field, horizontal plane, perpendicular to E)

In an electromagnetic wave, the oscillating electric field (E) and magnetic field (B) are perpendicular to each other and to the direction the wave travels - a purely transverse wave that needs no medium, unlike sound.

Concept context

Maxwell's equations, EM spectrum, properties, and applications of each band.

Read the full Electromagnetic Waves notes →