Calculating Distance Between Earth and Moon using Mirrors | Space Homework

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In summary, scientists use various methods such as parallax, redshift, and triangulation to measure the distance between objects in space. The farthest distance that has been measured in space is estimated to be 13.8 billion light years away. To account for the expanding universe, scientists use a unit of measurement called a light year and redshift measurements. While there may be some margin for error, scientists have developed precise methods for measuring distances in space. The vastness of space can make distance measurements more challenging, but with advanced technology and precise methods, accurate measurements can be made even over vast distances.
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wilson_chem90
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Homework Statement


Mirrors left behind the Moon have been used to measure the distance between Earth and the Moon accurately. If the time required for a pulse of light to reach the Moon and return to Earth is 2.562 s, calculate the distance between Earth and the Moon in kilometers.


Homework Equations


v = d/t


The Attempt at a Solution



c = v, therefore 2.998 x 10^8 m/s = v

d = vt
= (2.998 x 10^8 m/s)(2.562 s)
= 768087600 m
= 768,087.6 km
 
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  • #2
You found the distance of the round trip the light takes.
 
  • #3
so does that mean i divide it by 2?
 
  • #4
yup.
 
  • #5
oh okay thank you very much
 

1. How do scientists measure the distance between objects in space?

Scientists use a variety of methods to measure the distance between objects in space, including parallax, redshift, and triangulation. Parallax involves measuring the apparent shift in position of an object as it is viewed from different locations. Redshift is a phenomenon caused by the expansion of the universe, which causes light from distant objects to appear more red. Triangulation involves using the angle between two known points to calculate the distance to a third point.

2. What is the farthest distance that has been measured in space?

The farthest distance that has been measured in space is the distance to the cosmic microwave background, which is estimated to be 13.8 billion light years away. This is the furthest that we can currently see into the universe.

3. How do scientists account for the expanding universe when measuring distances in space?

Scientists use a unit of measurement called a light year, which is the distance that light travels in one year. This takes into account the expansion of the universe, as the light has traveled for a certain amount of time. Additionally, scientists use redshift measurements to account for the expansion of the universe when calculating distances.

4. Can scientists accurately measure distances in space?

Yes, scientists have developed precise methods for measuring distances in space. While there is always some margin for error, these methods have been refined over many years and can provide accurate measurements of distances in space.

5. How does the vastness of space impact the accuracy of distance measurements?

The vastness of space can make distance measurements more challenging, as it is difficult to accurately measure extremely large distances. However, with the use of advanced technology and precise methods, scientists are able to make accurate measurements of distances in space, even over vast distances.

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