Calculating Distance Traveled by Light in 19.8 µs

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the distance traveled by light in a specified time interval of 19.8 microseconds, utilizing the known speed of light. The subject area pertains to basic physics concepts involving speed, distance, and time relationships.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the definition of speed and its relationship to distance and time. There are attempts to clarify how to apply the formula for distance based on the given speed of light and time.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on using the formula for distance, while others are seeking further clarification on the concepts involved. The discussion reflects a mix of understanding and requests for assistance without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be some uncertainty regarding the initial steps to take in solving the problem, as well as the conversion of units from meters to miles.

am08
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The speed of light is 3.00 x 108 m/s. How many miles will light travel in 19.8 µs? (One mile is 1.61 km.)

I don't even know where to start, any help would be appreciated.
 
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What's the definition of speed?
 
anyone? help!
 
Again: What does speed mean? (Hint: The units are meters/second.) How does speed relate to distance and time?
 
speed is - distance/time
 
am08 said:
speed is - distance/time
Exactly! So distance = speed X time.

Use that to find out how many meters the light travels in that time. Then convert that answer to miles.
 
thanks for your help doc, was easy enough :)
 

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