How does Wien’s Law allow astronomers to infer the surface temperature of a star like the Sun?

Answer

By measuring the peak wavelength of the emitted light spectrum.

Stars approximate ideal blackbody radiators, meaning their emitted light spectrum is directly dependent on their surface temperature. Wien's Law mathematically describes this relationship, stating that the wavelength at which the star emits the maximum amount of radiation is inversely proportional to its absolute temperature. Consequently, very hot stars have peak emission in the shorter, bluer wavelengths, while cooler stars peak at longer, redder wavelengths. By analyzing the electromagnetic spectrum of a star and identifying where the intensity is highest, scientists can use Wien's Law to accurately determine the star's surface temperature, such as the approximately 6,000 Kelvin for a G2 star like the Sun.

How does Wien’s Law allow astronomers to infer the surface temperature of a star like the Sun?

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