As you move away from a lightsource

  • Thread starter grantP
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In summary, when moving away from a light source, the wavelength of the light does not change. This is because wavelength is the distance between two successive points on a wave, and this distance does not change. However, the frequency appears to decrease due to the Doppler effect, but the speed of light remains constant.
  • #1
grantP
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As you move away from a lightsource...

Homework Statement


(from title)
...the wavelength of the light _______? (increase, stays the same, decrease, decrease in amplitude?)

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
my guess would be the wavelength would stay the same, but I am not certain at all, anyone know?
 
  • #3
explain why you believe it would stay the same.
 
  • #4
well because wavelength is the distance between two successive points on waves right? well as you move away, the length dosent change, just the amount or possibly the frequency?
 
  • #5
This is just a theory. Technically neither the frequency or wavelength change. But for the observer, if you account for the Doppler effect, light sources/stars moving away from the Earth appear to have a 'red shift' while those moving towards Earth have a 'blue shift'. Red light has a longer wavelength than blue light. Frequency appears to decrease, but speed of light remains the same.
 

1. How does the brightness of a light source change as you move away from it?

As you move away from a light source, the brightness of the light decreases. This is because the light rays spread out and become less concentrated, resulting in a lower intensity of light.

2. Does the color of a light source change as you move away from it?

The color of a light source does not change as you move away from it. The color of light is determined by its wavelength, which remains constant regardless of distance.

3. What is the relationship between distance and the amount of light received?

The amount of light received is inversely proportional to the distance from the light source. This means that as the distance increases, the amount of light received decreases.

4. Why does a light source appear smaller as you move away from it?

A light source appears smaller as you move away from it because the light rays spread out, resulting in a larger area being illuminated. This makes the light source appear smaller in comparison.

5. Is there a limit to how far you can move away from a light source and still see it?

Yes, there is a limit to how far you can move away from a light source and still see it. This is known as the visibility limit and is determined by factors such as the intensity of the light, the sensitivity of the human eye, and the surrounding environment.

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