Does light lose energy (frequency decrease) with time?

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SUMMARY

Light does not lose energy or experience a decrease in frequency solely due to the passage of time when traveling through space. The conservation of energy principle remains intact, as energy cannot be created or destroyed. The discussion references the outdated cosmological theory of "tired light," which suggested that light loses energy over time, but this theory has been discredited. The shift in the blackbody spectrum from 3000 K to below 3 K is attributed to the expansion of the universe rather than a loss of energy from light itself.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the conservation of energy principle in physics
  • Familiarity with blackbody radiation and its spectrum
  • Knowledge of cosmological theories, particularly "tired light"
  • Basic concepts of the universe's expansion and temperature changes over time
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the conservation of energy in the context of modern physics
  • Study blackbody radiation and its implications in astrophysics
  • Examine the historical context and criticisms of the "tired light" theory
  • Explore the effects of cosmic expansion on light and temperature in the universe
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of light behavior and cosmological theories.

mateomy
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This isn't a direct homework question but it pertains to a little presentation I'm working on. I was curious because answers, to some extent, seem to be all over the place. Wanted to get the opinion of physicsforums. Does light traveling through space (assuming no interactions with other matter), lose energy and thereby experience a decrease in frequency...say, going from visible light to infrared or radio, just by the passage of time?

Thanks.
 
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Then energy wouldn't be conserved, would it?
 
Of course not. (completely embarrassed I didn't think of that)

Guess that settles it. Thanks.
 
Think about this: the universe was 3000 K when it became transparent to light. Today, the temperature is below 3 K. The blackbody spectrum shifted to lower energies over time. How did that happen?
 

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