Infrared Spectra of Greenhouse Gases

Infrared Spectra of Greenhouse Gases Visualisation A visualisation to learn about the infrared (IR) spectra of different greenhouse gases and the effect of greenhouse gases on the Earth’s climate. Students will use the visualisation to view the IR spectra of different greenhouse gases, observe the amount of IR radiation absorbed for the current concentration of […]

Planetary Temperatures

Planetary Temperatures Reading A reading that discusses the blackbody emission properties of the Sun and planets, describes the calculation of planetary temperatures by using the Stefan-Boltzmann Law, and explains the effect of atmospheres on planetary temperatures. Students will learn to apply the Stefan-Boltzmann equation to determine the total energy flux emitted by the Sun’s surface […]

Blackbody Spectrum

Blackbody Spectrum Model/Simulation A Model/Simulation and associated activity to explain how Planck’s Law can be used to plot blackbody curves of objects with different temperatures, the relationship between temperature and peak wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum, and the greenhouse effect of Earth’s atmosphere. Use this tool to help your students find answers to: How can […]

Teaching Planck’s Law and Blackbody Radiation through Climate-related Examples

Teaching Planck’s Law and Blackbody Radiation through Climate-related Examples Overview As a high school or undergraduate Physics teacher, you can use this set of computer-based tools to help you in teaching Planck’s Law, the StefanBoltzmann Law, and Blackbody Radiation. This lesson plan allows students to visualize the emission spectra associated with particular temperatures, to understand […]