Is Darkness Simply a Lack of Light?

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Anttech
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SUMMARY

Darkness is defined as a lack of light, specifically a lack of photons in the visible spectrum. While other spectrums of light may exist, they do not affect the human retina, leading to the perception of darkness. The absence of light signals to the brain results in the interpretation of darkness or blackness. This understanding is crucial for discussions in optics and perception.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts related to light and photons
  • Knowledge of human visual perception and how the retina functions
  • Familiarity with the electromagnetic spectrum, particularly the visible spectrum
  • Basic principles of optics and light behavior
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of photons and their role in light perception
  • Explore the electromagnetic spectrum and its various components
  • Study the physiology of the human eye, focusing on the retina's response to light
  • Investigate the psychological interpretation of visual stimuli, including darkness
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, optical engineers, psychologists studying perception, and anyone interested in the nature of light and darkness.

Anttech
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(stupid question)

I hope this isn't a stupid question, but how can you define darkness, ie, would it be exceptable to define darkeness as a lack of light or lack of photons?

(/stupid question)
 
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A lack of photons striking the retina.
 
eh yeh that's what I thought, how would you define darkness without a person being there?... I think just lack of photons?

PS being Greek I like you signature! :)
 
Yeah, you could define it as being a lack of photons in the visible spectrum. Other spectrums of light could be present, but the retina will not respond to them. This absense of any signal from our eyes is interpreted by our brains as "darkness" or black.
 

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