Inverse Square Law

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In this math activity related to light, learners explore why a light, such as a candle or a streetlight, looks dimmer the farther away from it we get. The answer lies in the Inverse Square Law, which learners demonstrate using graph paper or perfboard. (Two methods are given for this activity.) Learners will discover that the intensity of light is described by the power distributed over an area.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per student
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 18
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • A Mini-Maglite™ flashlight. No substitutes! A point source of light is required for this Snack. (Or make your own economical light source with a square of heavy cardboard, a Mini-Maglite™ replacement bulb, two batteries - either AAA, AA, C, or D - and clip leads to connect them. See Assembly for details.)
  • Graph Paper [Graph Paper Version]
  • Cardboard or foamcore [Graph Paper Version]
  • Perfboard [Perfboard Version]
  • Cardboard to use as a screen [Perfboard Version]
  • A file card
  • A pencil
  • A knife or scissors
  • Ruler
  • Adult help

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Human Body
      • The Brain and Nervous System
    • Human Senses and Perception
      • Vision
      • Perception
  • Mathematics
    • Algebra
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Data Collection
    • Measurement
    • Number and Operations
      • Exponents
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Problem Solving
  • Physical Sciences
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Light and Optics
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

Funding Sources:

  • National Science Foundation
  • California Department of Education
  • NEC Foundation of America