Solving Point Source Light Problem | HELP

  • Thread starter Thread starter BuBbLeS01
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Point Source
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving a geometry problem involving a point source of light illuminating an aperture. The scenario describes a light patch measuring 10.2 cm on a screen located 1.02 m behind the aperture, which is 2.3 m away from the light source. Participants suggest using trigonometric principles to determine the width of the aperture by calculating the angle α and applying standard trigonometric relationships to find the necessary dimensions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic geometry concepts
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions and relationships
  • Ability to interpret and analyze geometric diagrams
  • Knowledge of light propagation principles
NEXT STEPS
  • Study trigonometric ratios and their applications in geometry
  • Learn about light propagation and its effects on image formation
  • Explore geometric optics principles related to apertures and light sources
  • Practice solving similar problems involving angles and distances in geometry
USEFUL FOR

Students studying geometry, physics enthusiasts, and educators looking for practical applications of trigonometry in real-world scenarios.

BuBbLeS01
Messages
602
Reaction score
0
Point Source...HELP!

Homework Statement


A point source of light illuminates an aperture 2.3 m away. A 10.2-cm-wide bright patch of light appears on a screen 1.02 m behind the aperture. How wide is the aperture?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


This looks like a geometry problem but I am not seeing it??
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I have included a drawing of the situation in the attachment.
You can use the blue triangle to find the angle \alpha.
Then use standard trigonometry to find the answer (which is the length of one of the sides of the red triangle).
 

Attachments

  • aperture.jpg
    aperture.jpg
    5 KB · Views: 1,896
wow thank you very much!
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
923
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
8K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K