基础定律以及基尔霍夫定律_Chapter04.pdfVIP

4.1 Basics and Kirchoff’s Laws Photon Energies Electromagnetic radiation of frequency ν, wavelength λ, in free space obeys: λυ = c Individual photons have energy: E = hν h = Planck’s constant −27 h = 6.626 × 10 erg s € c = speed of light 10 -1 c = 3.0 × 10 cm s € Energies are often given in electron volts, where: € −12 −19 1 eV = 1.6 × 10 erg = 1.6 × 10 J Primary Astrophysical Processes Producing Electromagnetic Radiation •  When charged particles change direction (i.e., they are accelerated), they emit radiation •  Quantum systems (e.g., atoms) change their energy state by emitting or absorbing photons Discrete (quantum transitions) EMR Thermal (i.e., blackbody) Continuum Nonthermal: Synchrotron Free-free Which one(s) will dominate, Cherenkov depends on the physical conditions of the gas/plasma. Thus, EMR is a physical diagnostic . Nuclear energy levels Inner shells of heavier elements Different Atomic energy levels Physical