How come we can see a source of light extremely far away when the source only illuminates the area much closer to it?

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For example, I’m sitting on my front porch which overlooks the town. Miles away I can see streetlights, signs, etc. How does the source project light to my location, yet doesn’t illuminate my location?

Holy moly friends, thanks for the awards and stuff. I didn’t think this question would spark so much interest, lol. I am thoroughly grateful for all your replies.

In: Physics

22 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

Every light source sends out loads of tiny light blobs that fly out in a straight line and illuminate anything they touch. Most of these hit into stuff near the light source cos it’s closer so we can see it lit up. There are so many flying out that some of them are bound to hit your eye, but not enough so they are able to light up the area.

Kinda like a blunderbuss.

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