Solar spectrum coverage: which of the following frequency/ wavelength regions form part of the Sun’s radiation that reaches or is emitted from the Sun?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All of these

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The Sun radiates over a vast electromagnetic spectrum. While the peak of the solar spectrum at Earth is in the visible, significant energy exists in the ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR), and measurable emissions occur at radio wavelengths as well. Understanding this breadth is essential for remote sensing, solar physics, and communications interference studies.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Solar radiation approximates a blackbody spectrum near 5770 K.
  • Earth’s atmosphere filters portions of UV and IR; windows vary by wavelength.
  • Solar radio emissions, though lower in power density than visible/IR, are real and observable.



Concept / Approach:
Planck’s law predicts non-zero radiance at all wavelengths; the visible band is only where the spectral peak lies for human vision. UV contributes to atmospheric chemistry; IR carries most thermal energy; radio emissions arise from solar plasma processes.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Acknowledge UV, visible, and IR as principal energy contributors in solar irradiance at Earth.Recognize radio emissions from solar activity (quiet Sun, bursts).Thus, all listed regions are part of the Sun’s radiation.



Verification / Alternative check:
Solar spectral irradiance curves show energy across UV–visible–IR and detectable radio flux.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Choosing a subset ignores the Sun’s full spectral output.



Common Pitfalls:

  • Equating 'most energy' with 'only'—the Sun emits beyond the peak region.



Final Answer:
All of these

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