The time taken by light to travel from Sun to Earth is approximately: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

The time taken by light to travel from Sun to Earth is approximately:
A. 8 minutes
B. 1 hour
C. 8 seconds
D. 1 day
Answer: Option A
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
Average Earth-Sun distance (1 AU) ≈ 1.5×10¹¹ m. Speed of light c = 3×10⁸ m/s. Time t = distance/speed = 1.5×10¹¹ / 3×10⁸ = 500 seconds ≈ 8.33 minutes ≈ 8 minutes. This is a standard astronomical fact. Memory aid: 'Sunlight takes 8 minutes to reach Earth; we see the Sun as it was 8 minutes ago'. This factual knowledge question tests awareness of scale in physics, frequently appearing in competitive exams. Always recall key constants: Earth-Sun distance, light speed, for quick estimations.

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Practice More Physics Questions

Question #1
The part of human eye that controls amount of light entering is
A. Lens
B. Retina
C. Iris
D. Cornea

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
Iris adjusts pupil size. In bright light pupil constricts, dim light dilates. Retina forms image. Cornea and lens focus. Eye is like camera.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #2
The force between two charges is 10 N in vacuum. If a dielectric of constant 5 is inserted, force becomes
A. 10 N
B. 2 N
C. 50 N
D. 0.5 N

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
F_medium = F_vacuum / K = 10/5 = 2 N.

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Question #3
According to Joule's law of heating, the heat produced in a resistor is directly proportional to the square of:
A. Resistance
B. Time
C. Electric Current
D. Voltage

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
Joule's Law of Heating states that the heat (H) produced in a resistor is given by H = I²Rt. This indicates that the heat produced is directly proportional to the square of the electric current (I), directly proportional to the resistance (R), and directly proportional to the time (t) the current flows.

This question belongs to: Science Physics