Calculating Intensity & Distance Ratios of Two Identical/Similar Lights

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating intensity and distance ratios for two identical stars and two similar lights. The correct formula to use for both scenarios is E1D1² = E2D2², where E represents illumination, D denotes distance, and I signifies intensity. For the first case, the stars are identical, while for the second, the lights are similar, justifying the use of the same formula. The participants confirm the application of this formula to derive the necessary ratios.

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  • Understanding of the inverse square law in physics
  • Familiarity with the concepts of illumination, distance, and intensity
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
  • Knowledge of ratios and proportions
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dranseth
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Homework Statement



Two identical stars have intensity readings in a 40 to 1 ratio. Calculate the ratio of their distances.

Two similar lights are at distances in a ratio of 8 to 785. Calculate the ratio of intensities.


All I want to know is if I use E1D1^2=E2D2^2 or I1/D1^2=I2/D2^2. I'm quite sure I use E1D1^2=E2D2^2 for both. For the first one because they stars are the exact same, and for the second one because they are similar?
 
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you'll have to tell us what E, D, and I are.
 
E= illumination
D=distance
I=intensity
 

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