Radiation Pressure: Solving for Magnetic Field

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around calculating the necessary power output of a light beam to suspend a piece of paper using radiation pressure. The paper has an area of 50 cm² and a mass of 0.20 g. The user correctly identifies that the power can be calculated using the formula power = c * u * A, where u represents the energy density. The user resolves their confusion by recalling that the force exerted by gravity (F = m * g) can be used to find the energy density (u = F/A), leading to a complete solution for the problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of radiation pressure and its applications
  • Familiarity with the concepts of force and gravitational acceleration
  • Knowledge of energy density and its relation to electromagnetic fields
  • Basic algebra for manipulating physical formulas
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between radiation pressure and electromagnetic waves
  • Learn about the derivation and applications of the energy density formula in electromagnetism
  • Explore the principles of light-matter interaction in physics
  • Investigate the effects of varying light intensity on radiation pressure
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Students in physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism and radiation pressure, as well as educators looking for practical examples of these concepts in action.

jarfungus
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Hello! First time on this site, so I hope I do this right. I have a homework question that I could use some help on:

(From Physics for Scientists and Engineers, Third Ed. Fishbane, Gasiorowicz, Thornton)

Chapter 34 #39.
Suppose that you want to use the radiation pressure from a beam of light to suspend a piece of paper in a horizontal position; the paper has an area of 50 cm^2 and a mass of 0.20 g. Assume that their is no problem with the balance, that the paper is dark and absorbs the beam fully, and that the entire beam can be used to hold the paper against the pull of gravity. How many watts must the light produce? Given your answer, what do you think will happen to the paper?

Since power=c*u*A, I can easily calculate the amount, right? The problem comes when solving for u. I know that u=1/u0*B^2. But how can I find the magnitude of the magnetic field with the information given? Would it be right to manipulate the formulas so that B=E^2/(sqrt(1-c^2))? (Then what is E?) ...



 
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I got it:)

Nevermind! I think I figured it out. I forgot the u=F/A, and the force is m*g...so I am all set:)
Thanks for all the viewing.
 

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