Physics: Principles with Applications (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32162-592-7
ISBN 13: 978-0-32162-592-2

Chapter 28 - Quantum Mechanics of Atoms - Problems - Page 827: 42

Answer

The laser beam is more intense by a factor of about 36.

Work Step by Step

Intensity is the power per unit area. The relevant area for the laser light is the cross-sectional area of the beam. $$I=\frac{P}{\pi r^2}=\frac{0.00050W}{\pi (0.0015m)^2}\approx 71W/m^2$$ The area for the lightbulb is the surface area of a sphere over which the power is distributed. $$I=\frac{P}{4\pi r^2}=\frac{100W}{4\pi (2.0m)^2}\approx 2.0W/m^2$$ The laser beam is more intense by a factor of (70.74/1.989), or about 36
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