Final answer:
The question pertains to the physics of light and human vision, particularly the diffraction-limited resolution of the human eye, which determines how far apart two light sources, like car headlights, must be to be seen as distinct. The calculation would involve the wavelength of light and the diameter of the pupil, but in practical terms, drivers are typically advised to dim high beams for oncoming traffic within 500 feet.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question relates to the resolution limit of the human eye, specifically applied to distinguishing car headlights at night. The ability to resolve two distinct points of light is limited by the physics of diffraction. The maximum distance at which a person can resolve two headlights that are 1.3 meters apart can be calculated using the formula for the resolution limit, which is based on the Rayleigh criterion.
The key factors in this calculation are the wavelength of light (typically taken to be around 550 nm for calculations involving the human eye) and the diameter of the eye's pupil (given as 0.40 cm). Using these factors and assuming ideal viewing conditions, the angular resolution can be found, which can then be used to calculate the maximum distance at which the headlights can be resolved as separate sources of light.
Now, to answer the question directly, the typical rule for driving is that one should dim high beam headlights if an oncoming vehicle comes within 500 feet (approximately 150 meters) to prevent blinding the other driver. However, this practical advice wasn't the main subject of the original question; rather, it was about the limit of the eye's ability to discern separate points of light based on physical principles.