How to calculate light intensity?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the light intensity of Mercury using the average distance from the Sun, which is 0.39 AU. The formula utilized is (1/(d^2)), resulting in a relative light intensity of 6.57 compared to Earth. To convert this to watts per square meter (w/(m^2)), additional data such as the solar constant or the total power emitted by the Sun is required.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of astronomical units (AU)
  • Familiarity with the formula for light intensity (1/(d^2))
  • Knowledge of the solar constant
  • Basic principles of light intensity measurement in w/(m^2)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the solar constant value for accurate calculations
  • Learn about the total power output of the Sun
  • Explore methods for converting relative light intensity to absolute values
  • Investigate the effects of distance on light intensity in astrophysics
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in calculating light intensity in relation to planetary distances.

R Sarwar
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I am calculating the light intensity of Mercury.
I was given the average distance from the Sun in AU's which is 0.39.
Using the formula (1/(d^2)), I solved for the light intensity relative to Earth which I found to be 6.57.
I need to find the light intensity in (w/(m^2))
 
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You will need some additional input, like the intensity at 1 AU ("solar constant"), or the total power of light emitted by the sun, or something similar.
 

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