Light travels forever unless it hits matter. When it encounters an object, it can reflect or be absorbed. Astronomers have detected light that has traveled for over 12 billion years, providing clues about the universe’s age. Photons, the tiny particles of light, display interesting properties as they travel great distances.
One significant factor is the expansion of the universe. As space stretches, light waves elongate, causing them to lose energy. This phenomenon is known as redshift. Additionally, light encounters obstacles, such as dust and gas in space, which can absorb or scatter its energy.
Despite these challenges, light does have the potential to cover incredible distances. It has traveled from distant stars to reach our eyes, bringing the cosmos into view. Yet, once it interacts with matter or travels across vast expanses, its intensity diminishes.
Understanding this concept leads to broader inquiries about the nature of light and its interactions. What happens to light as it travels through different mediums? How does its journey affect our perception of the universe? These questions expand our knowledge of the properties of light and its role in the cosmos.
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