The intensity of light with a mean wavelength of 854 nm


The intensity of light with a mean wavelength of 854 nm falling on a solar sail is 140 watts/m^2. The sail is oriented perpendicular to the direction of the incoming light, in order to intercept as much light as possible.

- What is the total momentum of the photons falling on 52000 m^2 of the sail every second?

- If the sail is a perfect mirror, reflecting the photons without any absorption or change in their momentum, then what average force is exerted on the sail?

- How long would it take to accelerate a 1440 kg craft (mass includes that of the sail) from rest to velocity .1 c using such a sail?

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Physics: The intensity of light with a mean wavelength of 854 nm
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