Question
Download Solution PDFThe speed of light is approximately how many meters per second?
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Option 2 : 3.0 x 10^8
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Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFCorrect Answer: 3.0 x 10^8 meters per second
Rationale:
- The speed of light in a vacuum is a fundamental constant of nature and is approximately 299,792,458 meters per second. For simplicity, it is often rounded to 3.0 x 10^8 meters per second.
- This value is significant in various fields of physics, including electromagnetism, relativity, and quantum mechanics. The speed of light is denoted by the symbol "c" and is crucial for equations such as Einstein's E=mc^2.
Explanation of Other Options:
3.0 x 10^6 meters per second
- Rationale: This value is two orders of magnitude smaller than the actual speed of light. The speed of light is significantly faster, at 3.0 x 10^8 meters per second.
3.0 x 10^9 meters per second
- Rationale: This value is an order of magnitude higher than the actual speed of light. No known particles or signals travel faster than the speed of light in a vacuum, making this value incorrect.
3.0 x 10^10 meters per second
- Rationale: This value is two orders of magnitude higher than the actual speed of light. It is not physically accurate based on our current understanding of physics and the constraints of the universe.
Conclusion:
- Among the given options, 3.0 x 10^8 meters per second is the correct and scientifically accepted value for the speed of light in a vacuum. This fundamental constant plays a crucial role in various scientific calculations and theories.
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