Chapter 5, Problem 49A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : The influence of Planck in the development of modern atomic theory is to be explained.

Concept Introduction : Planck discussed his theory of energy quantization.

Planck attempted to explain why as a body's temperature rises, it first appears black, then red, then yellow, and finally white.

Answer to Problem 49A

Planck influenced the development of modern atomic theory by finding the quantization of energy through radiation.

Explanation of Solution

Planck discovered that if he assumed that a body's energy changes only in tiny discrete units, or quanta, he could explain the color changes.

Planck demonstrated mathematically that a body's ability to absorb or emit radiation is inversely related to the frequency of the radiation.

The amount of radiation energy is given as

  $E=h\nu$

Where $h$ is Planck’s constant value is $6.626\times {10}^{-34}\text{J}\text{s}$ and $\nu$ is the frequency.

Planck was the first person to introduce the change in the body due to radiation.