What is the significance of a 5.0 mW Point Light Source?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the interpretation of a 5.0 mW point light source, focusing on the distinction between energy and power, and the implications of this measurement in different contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants clarify that 5.0 mW refers to power, specifically indicating that the light source emits energy at a rate of 5 J/s.
  • Others suggest that the term could be misinterpreted as energy rather than power, noting that 5.0 mW should be understood as 5.0 mJ/s.
  • A participant raises the possibility that in astronomy, the term might be confused with mJy (milli Jansky), although this is not typically applied to visible light.
  • There is a correction regarding the terminology used, emphasizing that the correct term is watts, not joules.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the interpretation of the term "5.0 mW," particularly regarding its classification as power versus energy, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of consensus on the implications of the measurement in different fields, and the potential for confusion between energy and power is noted.

pardesi
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what do we mean when we say a point light source is [tex]5.0 mW[/tex]
 
Last edited:
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That is an energy - so not very useful, unless it means 5.0mJ/s ie 5milliWatts.

In astronomy it could be a typo for mJy = milli Jansky bit this isn't commonly used for visible light
 
Last edited:
sorry that was watt.
 
It's not energy, it's power. It means the light source is giving out energy at the rate of 5 J/s.
 

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