How intimate are the rays of light?

In summary, when looking at distant objects, the rays of light that come into our eyes are usually considered to be parallel, as long as they originate from an object that is relatively close by. However, as the object gets further away, the rays of light become more and more divergent and eventually we can only see one ray of light coming from the object.
  • #1
nihilius
7
0
1. Is there any clue as to how close two adjacent photons, coming from a distant star, in neighbouring paths, can be to each other?

2. Do their paths make a minute angle? or coming from a distance and heading towards earth, they are dead parallel to each other?

3. What, if the source of light is a distant powerful tiny mass, approaching a point in size? Shall we still be able to see parallel rays of light?
 
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  • #2
The rays coming from our own sun are usually considered to be parallel, and the sun is not that far away considering the distance to other stars. But as you know the sun does take up certain arc in the sky, so a ray from the left side is not exactly parrallel to one coming from the right side.

For star light, since a star is light years away, that angle becomes smaller and smaller as you observe a star farther and farther away. Most stars look like point sources of light so the rays would be very very parallel.
 
  • #3
Isn't that the case that as a source of light shrinks to a point, the emission of light resembles the radii of a sphere?
 
  • #4
nihilius said:
1. Is there any clue as to how close two adjacent photons, coming from a distant star, in neighbouring paths, can be to each other?

They can occupy the same location as photons are Bosons.

2. Do their paths make a minute angle? or coming from a distance and heading towards earth, they are dead parallel to each other?

Depends on what you mean. When forming an image only light rays that are approximately parallel are used in a telescope. The actual light from the star shines in all possible directions and angles though.

3. What, if the source of light is a distant powerful tiny mass, approaching a point in size? Shall we still be able to see parallel rays of light?

Yes. That is how we view stars in most telescopes currently. They are so far away that they are very nearly a point source.
 
  • #5
Drakkith said:
They can occupy the same location as photons are Bosons.



Depends on what you mean. When forming an image only light rays that are approximately parallel are used in a telescope. The actual light from the star shines in all possible directions and angles though.



Yes. That is how we view stars in most telescopes currently. They are so far away that they are very nearly a point source.



What you have mentioned is quite respectable but what I have in mind, when I say a point source is, actually, not a distant giant star (which is only a point from a distance) but something in order of, for example, and electron emitting powerful light enough to reach us from a long distance .As it gets farther and farther, the rays of its light become more and more scarce (because of their divergence).
The question is when will it come the point that you can only have one ray of light, say, in your telescope. It’s that happens there is an evidence (theoretically) that the reason we have parallel rays of light is that they are coming from an expanded surface.
 
  • #6
Each "spot" on an image has been emitted from the same "spot" on the object. They are only parallel because of the great distance between us and the object allow us to consider them parallel even though they are only approximately parallel in reality.
 

1. How do rays of light create intimacy?

The concept of intimacy is subjective and can be perceived differently by individuals. However, when it comes to light, it can create a sense of intimacy by creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. This is because light can be manipulated to create a dim and intimate setting, or a bright and open one.

2. Can rays of light affect intimacy between people?

Yes, light can play a significant role in creating intimacy between people. For example, a romantic candlelit dinner or a cozy movie night with dim lighting can enhance feelings of intimacy between couples or friends. On the other hand, harsh and bright lighting can create a sense of distance and discomfort.

3. What impact do different colors of light have on intimacy?

Different colors of light can have varying effects on intimacy. Warm colors, such as red, orange, and yellow, can create a cozy and romantic atmosphere, while cooler colors, such as blue and green, can create a calm and serene feeling. The intensity and brightness of the light can also impact how intimate a space feels.

4. Can the direction of light affect intimacy?

Yes, the direction of light can have a significant impact on intimacy. For example, soft and diffused light coming from multiple sources can create a more intimate and comfortable setting compared to harsh and direct light from a single source. The angle and placement of light can also create different moods and enhance the intimacy of a space.

5. How does natural light contribute to intimacy?

Natural light can add a sense of warmth and coziness to a space, especially during the golden hour when the light is soft and warm. It can also create a sense of openness and connection to the outside world, which can enhance feelings of intimacy. However, it is essential to balance natural light with artificial light to create a comfortable and intimate atmosphere.

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