Light Reflection: Does Electric Source Affect Places A, B & C?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the effects of an electric light source on light visibility at different locations (A, B, and C) within a corridor setting. Participants explore concepts related to light reflection, absorption, and potential methods to minimize reflections.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the visibility of light at locations A, B, and C depends on whether the light is directed or emitted isotropically, as well as the reflective properties of the surfaces involved.
  • There is a proposal that in a typical scenario involving a light bulb and a corridor, all locations would likely register some light due to reflections.
  • Participants discuss the possibility of preventing reflections by painting the corridor black, with one suggesting that using carbon black could enhance absorption.
  • It is noted that while reflections may occur, diffractions would not, and that light intensity may be low in certain areas.
  • One participant mentions the use of specially designed spikes in anechoic chambers to absorb radiation, suggesting that similar structures could help manage light reflections in the corridor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that reflections will occur in the corridor, but there is no consensus on the effectiveness of various methods to minimize reflections or the overall impact of light intensity at different locations.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the effectiveness of proposed solutions for minimizing reflections, nor does it clarify the specific conditions under which light visibility is assessed.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in optics, lighting design, or acoustic treatment may find the discussion relevant.

NicolasJ
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If light is from electric source, would persons on places A, B and C register any light in any spectrum.
 

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Depends. Is the light highly directed or is it being emitted isotropically in all directions? Are the surfaces highly absorbant or highly reflective. How large is your structure compared to the wavelength of light (is it visible light)?

If you're just talking about say a light bulb and a corridor I would say they all would probably see some light due to reflections.
 
Born2bwire said:
If you're just talking about say a light bulb and a corridor I would say they all would probably see some light due to reflections.

Yes light bulb and a corridor, that is what I thought. Is there any way to prevent all reflection. Maybe painting the corridor black.
 
Reflections yes. Diffractions no. There will be some light everywhere but it may be very low intensity.
 
NicolasJ said:
Yes light bulb and a corridor, that is what I thought. Is there any way to prevent all reflection. Maybe painting the corridor black.

Painting it black would certainly help. Carbon black would be good. You could also go further by placing painted rectangular spikes on the walls. We use specially painted spikes made of a foam like material in anechoic chambers to absorb radiation. The structure is pretty good for absorbing just about any kind of wave as it is also used in audio anechoic chambers. While they wouldn't be properly designed for visible light they would induce more backscattering and help break up the reflections that would normally send the light further down the corridor.
 
great idea, thank you
 

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