Calculating EM Radiation from a Star 13 Million Light-Years Away

In summary, the problem asks for the rate at which a star radiates EM energy, given that it is 13 million light-years away from Earth and the intensity of light reaching Earth is 6x10^-21 W/m^2. To solve, you need to convert light-years to meters and then use the equation for surface area of a sphere (4πr^2) to find the distance from the star to Earth. Finally, you can multiply the distance by the intensity to get the answer.
  • #1
phy112
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Homework Statement



A certain star is 13 million light-years from Earth. The intensity of the light that reaches Earth from the star is 6 10-21 W/m2. At what rate does the star radiate EM energy?


Homework Equations



i know you have to convert lightyears to m. (1.23e17m) multiply this by 2 and multiply again by 4pi. Do you just multiply that answer by the intensity to get the answer?

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Almost. You're correct except for the "multiply this by 2" part. Instead of multiplying by 2, you need the square of the distance to the star. (A sphere's surface area is 4πr2, not 2r·4π)
 
  • #3
Thanks!
 

FAQ: Calculating EM Radiation from a Star 13 Million Light-Years Away

What is electromagnetic radiation?

Electromagnetic radiation is a type of energy that is emitted and absorbed by charged particles. It includes a wide range of wavelengths and frequencies, from radio waves to gamma rays.

How is electromagnetic radiation calculated from a star?

To calculate the electromagnetic radiation from a star, scientists use the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of radiation decreases as the distance from the source increases. They also take into account the star's luminosity, or the amount of energy it emits per second.

What is the significance of a star being 13 million light-years away?

The distance of 13 million light-years is significant because it represents an immense distance in space. It means that the star's light that we are seeing now has been traveling for 13 million years to reach us, giving us a glimpse into the past.

How does the distance of a star affect its electromagnetic radiation?

The distance of a star directly affects its electromagnetic radiation. As the distance increases, the intensity of radiation decreases, so a star that is 13 million light-years away would appear much dimmer than a star that is closer to us.

Why is it important to calculate electromagnetic radiation from stars?

Calculating electromagnetic radiation from stars allows us to understand the properties and behavior of stars, as well as their impact on the surrounding environment. It also helps us to better understand the history and evolution of our universe.

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