Radiation basics: Evaluate the statement “In a black body, all radiations are rejected.” Choose the correct assessment and reasoning.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: False

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Blackbody radiation is a cornerstone concept in heat transfer and thermodynamics. It defines ideal absorption and emission characteristics and underpins Planck’s law and Stefan–Boltzmann law.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • “Black body” refers to an ideal surface with absorptivity equal to 1 at all wavelengths and directions.
  • Thermal equilibrium concepts apply.


Concept / Approach:
A black body absorbs all incident radiation (it does not reflect or transmit). It also is the most efficient emitter at a given temperature. Therefore, the statement that it “rejects” all radiation is the opposite of the definition.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Define black body: absorptivity = 1, reflectivity = 0, transmissivity = 0.Kirchhoff’s law connects high absorptivity to high emissive power at the same temperature.Conclude that a black body does not reject radiation; it absorbs all and emits maximally.Hence, the statement is false.


Verification / Alternative check:
Compare to “white body,” which reflects; black body exhibits the opposite behaviour.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Conditional “true” options conflict with the universal definition; wavelength or medium does not reverse the black body’s absorbing nature.



Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “black” with non-emitting; in thermal radiation, a perfect absorber is also a perfect emitter at that temperature.



Final Answer:
False

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