Learn more physics!
Q:
is it possible to have two shadows yet one light source?
- cheryl (age 14)
p-town,VA,usa
A:
Cheryl -
Most shadows made by a single light source actually do have two parts, the
Umbra and Penumbra.
You can also get two separate shadows from one light source if you have
two different objects to create them. But no, if you only have one
light source and one object, you can't get more than one separate
shadow.
-Tamara
ps. Ok, I guess if you took a long
fluorescent light bulb and wrapped the center of it with black paper,
then each end of the bulb would act like a single light source. Then
the one bulb could create two separate shadows from just one object.
But practically speaking, even though it's just one bulb, the two
uncovered ends would really be two separate light sources.
(published on 10/22/2007)
Follow-Up #1: two shadows
Q:
I was noticing yesterday as i walked outside that i had two shadow's. it made me turn around to see who was behind me n there was no one there. I have heard that it means your going to die soon. I want the real answer please.
- miki (age 45)
Lakewood,Wa USA
A:
You get two shadows when the light is coming from two main sources, maybe two different street lamps.
Mike W.
(published on 08/27/12)
Follow-Up #2: double shadow
Q:
When I was outside it was in the afternoon and i wasn't near any street lamps. So is this possible?
- miki (age 45)
Lakewood,Wa USA
A:
Could there have been reflections of the sun off some windows or metal surfaces?
Mike W.
(published on 08/28/12)
Follow-Up #3: two shadows
Q:
No there wasn't anything around me, atleast nothing within 50 feet of me.
- miki (age 45)
Lakewood,Wa USA
A:
We're completely stumped.
Mike W.
(published on 09/01/12)
Follow-up on this answer.
