Rankers Physics

Thermal Physics: Practice Problem & Solution

If the temperature of the sun is doubled, the rate of energy received on earth will be increased by a factor of: (1998)
2
4
8
16

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Thermal Physics. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

The rate of energy received on earth is directly proportional to the rate of energy radiated by the sun. By Stefan's law, $E \propto T^4$. If $T$ is doubled, $E' \propto (2T)^4 = 16 T^4 = 16E$.

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