A shadow grows larger as the object casting it moves closer to the light source. This is because the object then blocks a larger portion of the light emanating from the source.
Here's a breakdown of why this happens:
- Light Travels in Straight Lines: Light travels in straight lines. When an object is placed in the path of light, it blocks some of those light rays.
- Shadow Formation: The area where the light is blocked is what we perceive as a shadow.
- Distance and Size:
- Closer to Light Source: When an object is closer to the light source, it intercepts a wider angle of the light rays. This blocked area expands outwards, creating a larger shadow.
- Farther from Light Source: Conversely, when the object is farther from the light source, it intercepts a smaller angle of the light rays. The blocked area is reduced, resulting in a smaller shadow.
Analogy:
Imagine holding your hand in front of a flashlight.
- Close Hand: If your hand is close to the flashlight, the shadow it casts on the wall will be large.
- Far Hand: If you move your hand away from the flashlight, the shadow on the wall will shrink.
In Summary: The size of a shadow is inversely proportional to the distance between the object casting the shadow and the light source. Closer objects, larger shadows; farther objects, smaller shadows.
