Calculating Distance Traveled by Light in 19.8 µs

In summary, the speed of light is 3.00 x 108 m/s. To find out how many miles light will travel in 19.8 µs, we can use the equation distance = speed x time. After converting the distance to miles, we get the answer for how far light will travel in that time.
  • #1
am08
44
0
The speed of light is 3.00 x 108 m/s. How many miles will light travel in 19.8 µs? (One mile is 1.61 km.)

I don't even know where to start, any help would be appreciated.
 
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  • #2
What's the definition of speed?
 
  • #3
anyone? help!
 
  • #4
Again: What does speed mean? (Hint: The units are meters/second.) How does speed relate to distance and time?
 
  • #5
speed is - distance/time
 
  • #6
am08 said:
speed is - distance/time
Exactly! So distance = speed X time.

Use that to find out how many meters the light travels in that time. Then convert that answer to miles.
 
  • #7
thanks for your help doc, was easy enough :)
 

1. How do you calculate the distance traveled by light in 19.8 µs?

To calculate the distance traveled by light in 19.8 µs, you can use the formula d = ct, where d is the distance, c is the speed of light (299,792,458 m/s), and t is the time in seconds. Simply plug in the values and solve for d to get the distance in meters.

2. Why is the time in the calculation given in microseconds (µs)?

The time in the calculation is given in microseconds because it is a very small unit of time that is often used in scientific measurements. It is equal to one millionth of a second, making it a more precise measurement for calculating the speed of light.

3. Is the speed of light constant in all calculations?

Yes, the speed of light is constant in all calculations. It is a fundamental physical constant and is denoted by the letter c. This means that the speed of light is the same in a vacuum or in any medium, regardless of the observer's frame of reference.

4. How accurate is the calculation of distance traveled by light in 19.8 µs?

The calculation is very accurate, as the speed of light is a well-established constant and the time given is precise. However, the accuracy of the final result may depend on the accuracy of the measurement of time.

5. What other units can be used to measure the distance traveled by light?

The distance traveled by light can also be measured in other units such as kilometers, miles, or astronomical units (AU). However, in scientific calculations, the standard unit used is meters.

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