How much energy would enter your pupils from an explosion in space?

In summary, the amount of energy that would enter your pupils from an explosion in space depends on factors like distance, intensity, and duration. It can potentially harm your eyes and cause damage to the retina. However, it is possible to protect your eyes by wearing appropriate eye protection. The energy from an explosion in space can affect your vision by causing temporary or permanent loss of vision and damage to the retina. This type of energy is different from other sources as it consists of various forms of radiation that can have a greater impact on the eyes.
  • #1
cestlavie
10
3
Homework Statement
Earth is about 28,000 light years from the center of the Milky Way Galaxy. If a supernova explosion occurred approximately 14,000 light years away from us and released ##2.0 * 10^46 J## of energy in a sudden burst of light, how much energy would enter one of your pupils? Assume the diameter of a pupil to be about 4 mm.
3.0 E 23 J
1.1 J
4.6 J
3.5 J
2.2 J
Relevant Equations
##S_{average}= \frac {energy} {time} * \frac {1} {area}##
The answer is 1.1 J, but I don't know how to get there. The only equation I can think of that might be related to this is Intensity, which I've added above. I could find area, using .0004m as the diameter, and energy using 2.0 E 46 J, but I get stuck on energy.
 
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  • #2
You need another relation. How does the intensity S of the light depend on the power of the source and the distance from the source?
 
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  • #3
Also, check your conversion of 4 mm to meters.
 
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1. How does an explosion in space affect the amount of energy entering your pupils?

An explosion in space can affect the amount of energy entering your pupils in several ways. First, the type and intensity of the explosion can impact the amount of energy that reaches your eyes. Additionally, the distance from the explosion and the presence of any protective barriers can also influence the amount of energy that enters your pupils.

2. What factors determine the amount of energy that enters your pupils from an explosion in space?

The amount of energy that enters your pupils from an explosion in space is determined by several factors. These include the type and intensity of the explosion, the distance from the explosion, the presence of any protective barriers, and the sensitivity of your eyes to different types of energy.

3. Is it safe to directly look at an explosion in space?

No, it is not safe to directly look at an explosion in space. Even though the vacuum of space can reduce the amount of energy that reaches your eyes, the intensity of the explosion and the distance from it can still cause serious damage to your eyes. It is important to always wear protective eyewear when observing explosions in space.

4. How does the vacuum of space affect the amount of energy entering your pupils from an explosion?

The vacuum of space can reduce the amount of energy that enters your pupils from an explosion. This is because there is no medium for the energy to travel through, so it dissipates more quickly. However, the intensity and type of energy from the explosion can still have an impact, so it is important to take precautions when observing explosions in space.

5. Can the amount of energy entering your pupils from an explosion in space cause permanent damage?

Yes, the amount of energy entering your pupils from an explosion in space can cause permanent damage to your eyes. The intensity and type of energy from the explosion can cause burns, damage to the retina, and other serious eye injuries. It is important to always wear protective eyewear and maintain a safe distance when observing explosions in space.

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