Why can we see the light from a source from afar, but

In summary, we can see light from a source from afar because it travels in straight lines and does not lose its intensity over long distances. The distance at which we can see a light source depends on its brightness and our eye's sensitivity. However, not all sources can be seen from afar as they must emit visible light. The light from a source may appear smaller from afar due to the inverse square law. Light travels through space as electromagnetic radiation in the form of waves, which can travel through the vacuum of space and reach our eyes, allowing us to see the light from a distant source.
  • #1
LogicalAcid
137
0
Not be able to feel the heat from afar, only up close? And heat can take form in all kinds of radiation right? So why is it that infrared radiation is always used to describe heat?
 
Science news on Phys.org
  • #2
We can feel the heat from a distant star - you just need a rather sensitive thermometer.

250px-IRAS_overview.jpg
 

1. Why can we see the light from a source from afar?

We can see the light from a source from afar because light travels in straight lines and does not lose its intensity over long distances. This allows the light to reach our eyes and be detected, allowing us to see the source.

2. How far can we see a light source from?

The distance at which we can see a light source depends on the brightness of the source and the sensitivity of our eyes. On a clear night, the human eye can see a candle flame from about 30 miles away, while the light from a lighthouse can be seen from over 20 miles away.

3. Can we see light from all sources from afar?

No, we cannot see light from all sources from afar. In order for us to see light from a source, it must emit electromagnetic radiation within the visible light spectrum. Some sources, such as infrared or ultraviolet light, are not visible to the human eye.

4. Why does light from a source appear smaller from afar?

The light from a source may appear smaller from afar due to the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of light decreases as the distance from the source increases. This means that the same amount of light is spread over a larger area, making it appear smaller to our eyes.

5. How does light travel through space to reach our eyes from a distant source?

Light travels through space as electromagnetic radiation in the form of waves. These waves do not require a medium to travel through, so they can travel through the vacuum of space. As the waves reach our eyes, they are detected by our retinas, allowing us to see the light from the distant source.

Similar threads

Replies
15
Views
2K
Replies
18
Views
8K
Replies
3
Views
799
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
17
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
17
Views
1K
Replies
22
Views
2K
Back
Top