Question

A radio wave transmits 34.5 W/m2 of power per unit area. A flat surface of area A is perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave. Assuming the surface is a perfect absorber, calculate the radiation pressure on it.

Answer 1

1.15*10^-7 N/m²

Step-by-step explanation:

Radiation pressure is the pressure exerted on any surface, as a result of the exchange of momentum between the object and its electromagnetic field.

The formula to calculate radiation pressure on a perfect absorber is

P = s/c, where

P = radiation pressure

s = intensity of light

c = speed of light

Now, on substituting the values and plugging it into the equation, we have

P = 34.5 / 3*10^8

P = 1.15*10^-7 N/m²

therefore, radiation pressure is found to be 1.15*10^-7 N/m²