# Power Output and Intensity

1. Dec 8, 2008

### vrobins1

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

The Sun emits electromagnetic waves (including light) equally in all directions. The intensity of the waves at the Earth's upper atmosphere is 1.5 kW/m2. At what rate does the Sun emit electromagnetic waves? (In other words, what is the power output?)

The answer is supposed to be in Watts, not kW.

2. Relevant equations

Surface area of sphere X Intensity = Power

3. The attempt at a solution

The surface area for a sphere = 4$$\pi$$r2. The radius of the sun in meters is 695,500,000 m.

The given intensity is 1.5 kW, which I converted to 1500 W.

4$$\pi$$(695500000)2(1500) = Power output
9.1e21 = Power output

2. Dec 8, 2008

### mgb_phys

The question gives you the power at the distance of the earth - what do you want to use for the radius ?

3. Dec 8, 2008

### vrobins1

The radius of the Earth = (6,378,100 meters).

4. Dec 8, 2008

### mgb_phys

You have a lightbulb at the centre of a sphere - you are working out the power at the edge of the sphere.

Now picture the solar system; the sun is at the centre - at what distance is the earth?

5. Dec 8, 2008

### vrobins1

Would r be the distance from the sun to the earth?

6. Dec 8, 2008

### LowlyPion

Like maybe 150*106 km?

That might work.