Suppose the maximum safe average intensity of microwaves for human exposure is taken to be 1.50 W/m2. If a radar unit leaks 10.0 W of microwaves (other than those sent by its antenna) uniformly in all directions, how far away must you be to be exposed to an average intensity considered to be safe? Assume that the power spreads uniformly over the area of a sphere with no complications from absorption or reflection.

Question

Physics

Mike Mcmillan

30 March, 21:46

Suppose the maximum safe average intensity of microwaves for human exposure is taken to be 1.50 W/m2. If a radar unit leaks 10.0 W of microwaves (other than those sent by its antenna) uniformly in all directions, how far away must you be to be exposed to an average intensity considered to be safe? Assume that the power spreads uniformly over the area of a sphere with no complications from absorption or reflection.

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Answers (1)

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Rayan Mcfarland · Answer 1

r = 0.728 m

Explanation:

The intensity is defined as the ratio between the power per unit area

I = P / A

Where A is the area of the sphere where the wave is

A = 4π r²

In this exercise we are given the power of the P = 10.0 W micro waves, the safe intensity I₁ = 1.5 W / m²

A₁ = P / I₁

Calculate

A₁ = 10.0 / 1.5

A₁ = 6.6667 m²

Let's clear the radius of the sphere

r = √ A / 4π

r = √ (6.6667 / 4π)

r = 0.728 m