About this Simulation
This simulation models thermal radiation from an ideal radiating object. Radiation is the transfer of heat through electromagnetic waves. All objects emit thermal radiation based on their temperature. This simulation consists of a hot object radiating thermal energy in all directions, with an absorbing object that heats up as it absorbs radiation and cools down through due to passive environmental interactions.
Use the icon to toggle the controls panel, and the icon to enter or exit fullscreen mode. The reset button () will restart the simulation with current settings.
Controls:
- Speed: Adjusts the simulation rate.
- Temperature: Controls the temperature of the radiating object.
- Intensity: Adjusts the visual density of photons displayed.
- Object Distance: Controls how far the absorbing object is from the radiation source.
- Cooling Rate: Controls how quickly the absorbing object loses heat to the environment.
- Absorption Object: Select different materials with varying absorption properties and thermal characteristics.
The simulation demonstrates thermal radiation including blackbody radiation, the Stefan-Boltzmann law (total power ∝ T⁴), the inverse square law, and thermal equilibrium.