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Re: [Phys-l] radio vs. light



That's why I hope to discuss it in class. I'm trying to teach my students to read and evaluate "scientific" articles.
One concern I had is that this article exemplifies the continuing dumbing down of a formerly enlightening magazine. I've been subscribing since the 60s, and comparing the quality of several decades ago with what they are putting out now is discouraging.
sk

-----Original Message-----
From: phys-l-bounces@carnot.physics.buffalo.edu [mailto:phys-l-bounces@carnot.physics.buffalo.edu] On Behalf Of Roger Haar
Sent: Wednesday, July 18, 2007 1:49 PM
To: Forum for Physics Educators
Subject: Re: [Phys-l] radio vs. light

HI,

I read the article and had the same concerns.
It is very bad physics. The differences between
(visible) light or photons and radio waves is an
oversimplification but conveys some truth, but
it would have been much better if there had
been a sidebar clearly indicating that these
statements were simplification.


Thanks
Roger Haar

Kilmer, Skip wrote:
In the July Scientific American there is an article about using light for local wifi instead of radio. On p. 84 there is a sidebar comparing the two media, including several interesting statements:
High transfer rates for radio depend on dangerously high power levels.
Radio signals interfere with each other but photons do not.
Out of phase radio waves can cancel each other out, but "destructive interference is impossible with light."
I think this article would be a good discussion starter for my modern physics or waves course.
Skip
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_______________________________________________
Forum for Physics Educators
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