Graph of inverse square law for radiation intensity

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mathematical representation of the inverse square law for radiation intensity, specifically the equation I = S / (4πr²). Participants confirm that this can be expressed in logarithmic form as ln(I) = ln(S / (4π)) - 2ln(r). The relationship to the linear equation y = mx + c is established, with y representing ln(I), x representing ln(r), the slope m being -2, and the intercept c being ln(S / (4π)). Corrections are made regarding the sign of the slope, clarifying that m should be -2, not positive.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of logarithmic functions and properties
  • Familiarity with the inverse square law in physics
  • Basic knowledge of linear equations and graphing
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of logarithms in depth
  • Explore the inverse square law applications in physics
  • Learn about linear regression and its graphical representation
  • Investigate the significance of slope and intercept in linear equations
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Students of physics, mathematicians, and anyone interested in the mathematical modeling of physical laws, particularly those involving radiation intensity and logarithmic transformations.

Luke1121
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If I=s/4pir2 would It be correct to write this in terms of logs like this:. lnI=(lns/4pi)-2.lnr Also how could this relate to y=mx+c? I think it's y=lnI. X=lnr. -m= -2 and c= lns/4pi. Is this correct? Thank you
 
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Luke1121 said:
If I=s/4pir2 would It be correct to write this in terms of logs like this:. lnI=(lns/4pi)-2.lnr

If you meant \ln I = \ln(S/4\pi) - 2 \ln r, then yes, this is correct, because

ln(abc) = ln(a) + ln(bc) (the log of a product equals the sum of the logs of the individual factors in the product).

and

ln(bc) = cln(b)

Luke1121 said:
Also how could this relate to y=mx+c? I think it's y=lnI. X=lnr. -m= -2 and c= lns/4pi. Is this correct? Thank you

That looks right. I mean, y is the dependent variable (in this case log of intensity), x is the independent variable (in this case log of radial distance) . The slope m is the constant factor that multiplies the independent variable. The intercept c is what you get when x = 0.

EDIT: It should be m = -2, NOT -m = -2.
 
Last edited:
You wrote -m=-2 which results m=2, a positive slope of the ln(I)-lnr graph. Is it right? ehild
 
Ah of course it's not -m, seems like I confused myself. Thank you
 

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