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Intensity of light

Definition

Intensity refers to the amount of power per unit area carried by light waves. It represents how bright or dim light appears.

Analogy

Imagine standing near two speakers playing music at different volumes. Intensity is similar to how loud or soft each speaker sounds, depending on how much power is being delivered per unit area.

Related terms

Amplitude: The maximum displacement from equilibrium in a wave, which determines its intensity.

Luminosity: The total amount of electromagnetic radiation emitted by an object per unit time.

Photons: Particles of light that carry energy and determine the intensity of light.

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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.