Where does light go when we switched off the Source of light.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the question of where light goes when a source of light is turned off, exploring theoretical scenarios regarding light behavior in different environments, particularly in closed spaces with reflective materials.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the fate of light in a room, suggesting that it gets absorbed by the walls.
  • Another participant proposes the idea of a closed room made of highly reflective, non-absorbing materials, questioning whether such a room would remain bright after the light source is turned off.
  • A later reply emphasizes that "highly" reflective is insufficient, arguing that the walls would need to be perfect crystals of infinite size to prevent light loss, while also noting that light would eventually be absorbed by an observer in the room.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of light retention in a closed room, with no consensus reached on the feasibility of maintaining brightness or the implications of light absorption by materials and observers.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about the properties of materials and the theoretical conditions required for light retention, which remain unresolved.

Alyrehan
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Hi, My Question Is taht where does light go when we switched off the Source of light.
 
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What are the surroundings? In a room, the light gets absorbed by the walls. Out in the open (flashlight), it keeps on going.
 


Is it in theory possible to create a closed room with highly reflecting, non-absorbing materials so that the light isn't lost? would this room stay bright? If so, I guess the viewer would absorb the light eventually in the process of observing the room.
 


digijoe said:
Is it in theory possible to create a closed room with highly reflecting, non-absorbing materials so that the light isn't lost? would this room stay bright? If so, I guess the viewer would absorb the light eventually in the process of observing the room.

"Highly" reflecting is not enough, it has to be perfect. The walls would have to be perfect crystals of infinite size. But sure, playing on crystal perfection and size, you can tune how long the light will stay inside. Well, at least one wavelength and its harmonics.
 


Dr Lots-o'watts said:
"Highly" reflecting is not enough, it has to be perfect. The walls would have to be perfect crystals of infinite size. But sure, playing on crystal perfection and size, you can tune how long the light will stay inside. Well, at least one wavelength and its harmonics.

But light will be absorbed very soon by YOU
 

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