A remote-sensing satellite carries three independent instruments that operate…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 2: Algebra-based · Waves Sound and Physical Optics · Waves Sound and Physical Optics
Problem
A remote-sensing satellite carries three independent instruments that operate simultaneously while mapping Earth’s surface.
• Instrument R: microwave radar operating at 10 GHz.
• Instrument L: near-infrared lidar emitting light of wavelength 1.06 µm.
• Instrument U: ultraviolet imager receiving radiation centered at 400 nm.
Throughout this problem, assume all radiation travels in vacuum and that c=3.0×108ms−1 and h=6.63×10−34Js.
(a) Arrange the photons detected or emitted by the three instruments in order of decreasing photon energy. State your ordering clearly.
(b) Calculate the ratio of the photon energy associated with Instrument U to that associated with Instrument R. Show all steps, keeping at least three significant figures in intermediate work.
(c) Briefly interpret the numerical ratio found in part (b) in terms of potential differences in detector design requirements for the two instruments.