Final Answer:
The net rate of energy loss by radiation from the seal's thermal window to the frosty surroundings is approximately 34.98 watts.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the net rate of energy loss, we use the Stefan-Boltzmann Law, which states that the power radiated is proportional to the fourth power of the temperature. With the temperatures given in Celsius, we convert them to Kelvin and apply the formula: P =
A\varepsilon
, where
is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant. Substituting the values for the area, emissivity, and temperatures, we obtain the net rate of energy loss as 34.98 watts. This signifies the amount of thermal energy radiated from the seal's thermal window to the colder surroundings.
The Stefan-Boltzmann Law and how it describes the power radiated by a black body in terms of its temperature and surface area. Understanding the principles of thermal radiation is essential in various fields, including biology and environmental science.