A pressure of $15 \times 10 ^ { - 6 } \mathrm {~N} / \mathrm { m } ^ { 2 }$ is due to sunlight being absorbed by a surface of a "solar sail." The energy flux incident on the surface is A) 1125 W/m². B) 2250 W/m². C) 4500 W/m². D) 9000 W/m².

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The pressure $P$ due to sunlight is related to the energy flux $F$ (in W/m$^2$) by the equation $P = \frac{F}{c}$, where $c$ is the speed of light ($3 \times 10^8$ m/s). Rearranging for $F$, we get $F = P \times c$. Substituting $P = 15 \times 10^{-6}$ N/m$^2$ and $c = 3 \times 10^8$ m/s, we find $F = 15 \times 10^{-6} \times 3 \times 10^8 = 4500$ W/m$^2$.

A Pressure Of 15×10−6 N/m215 \times 10 ^ { - 6 } \mathrm {~N} / \mathrm { m } ^ { 2 }15×10−6 N/m2

A Pressure Of $15 \times 10 ^ { - 6 } \mathrm {~N} / \mathrm { m } ^ { 2 }$