Velocity of light in water cloud

In summary, the velocity of laser energy traveling through a non-homogeneous cloud is affected by both the density of the cloud and the index of refraction. The level at which this is considered depends on whether the cloud is treated as a single object or if each drop of water is considered separately.
  • #1
woody726
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If laser energy travels through a non-homogeneous cloud, does the velocity changes with the cloud density as well or only due to the different than air index of refraction?
 
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  • #2
At what "level" do you want this considered? That is, if you are thinking about the cloud as a single object the light is going through, then the density is included in the index of refraction. If you are considering each drop of water separately, the speed through each drop depends only on the index of refraction, but then the overall speed depends upon how many drops the light goes through- i.e,. the density.
 

What is the velocity of light in water cloud?

The velocity of light in water cloud varies depending on the density and composition of the cloud. On average, the speed of light in a water cloud is approximately 1.33 times slower than its speed in a vacuum, which is 299,792,458 meters per second.

Why does the velocity of light change in water cloud?

The density and composition of a water cloud cause the velocity of light to change. The water molecules in a cloud can scatter and absorb light, leading to a decrease in its velocity.

Can the velocity of light in water cloud be measured?

Yes, the velocity of light in a water cloud can be measured using various techniques such as laser light scattering, interferometry, and spectrophotometry. These methods involve directing a beam of light through the cloud and measuring its speed.

How does the velocity of light in water cloud affect our perception of color?

The velocity of light in water cloud can affect our perception of color by causing the light to scatter and disperse, leading to a change in the color we see. This is why clouds can appear white or gray, as they scatter all wavelengths of light, making them appear colorless.

Does the velocity of light in water cloud have any practical applications?

Yes, the velocity of light in water cloud has practical applications in meteorology, as it can help scientists understand how light interacts with clouds and how that affects weather patterns. It also has applications in remote sensing, where the speed of light in a cloud can be used to determine its composition and density.

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