Graph of inverse square law for radiation intensity

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the mathematical representation of the inverse square law for radiation intensity, specifically exploring its logarithmic form and its relation to linear equations.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are examining the transformation of the inverse square law equation into logarithmic form and its implications for linear relationships. Questions arise regarding the correct interpretation of slope and intercept in the context of a logarithmic graph.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the logarithmic representation of the equation, with some participants affirming the correctness of the transformations and others questioning the interpretation of the slope. Clarifications are being made regarding the signs and values of the slope.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating potential confusion around the mathematical notation and its implications for graphing, particularly in relation to the signs of the slope and intercept.

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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