Is this question on Intensity of light from Sun correct?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the intensity of light emitted from the Sun, specifically questioning the validity of a given problem related to its constant value at Earth's orbit. Participants explore the definitions and implications of intensity and power in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster questions whether the intensity of light from the Sun can be considered a constant and suggests that the power emitted should be the focus instead. Other participants clarify that the intensity is defined at a specific distance (Earth's orbit) and discuss the relationship between power and intensity.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided clarifications regarding the definitions of intensity and power, indicating that the original poster's concerns may not be valid. However, the discussion remains open as participants explore different interpretations of the problem.

Contextual Notes

The original poster references a textbook example, which may impose specific assumptions or constraints that are being questioned in the discussion.

Jahnavi
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Homework Statement


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Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



This is an example given in the book . But I am just wondering whether the question itself is correct .

How can intensity of light emitted from Sun is given a constant ? Shouldn't 1400 be the power emitted from Sun ?

If 1400 is power emitted from sun , then in part b) , n = 1400/E . We don't need radius of Earth to answer part b) .

Instead we would require radius of orbit of Earth to answer part a) .

This is different from what is done in the book .

Could the experts kindly let me know whether my objection is valid or not ?
 

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Jahnavi said:
How can intensity of light emitted from Sun is given a constant ?
It is given at the Earth's orbit. There it is a given number. If you were closer to the Sun, this number would be higher.

Jahnavi said:
Could the experts kindly let me know whether my objection is valid or not ?
It is not.
 
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Irradiance ## E=1400 \, watts/m^2 ##. The number is correct. That is the intensity (irradiance) at the Earth's surface. ## \\ ## Meanwhile the sun is about 865,000 miles in diameter and is 93,000,000 miles away. The total power ## P ## satisfies ## \frac{P}{4 \pi s^2} =E## where ## s=93,000,000 \, miles ## which is ## s=1.50 \cdot 10^{11} \, m ##.
 
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Thanks !
 
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