Question:hard

A point source of light is placed at the centre of curvature of a hemispherical surface. The radius of curvature is \(r\), and the inner surface is completely reflecting. The force on the hemisphere due to the light falling on it, if the source emits a power \(W\), is:

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Normal-incidence reflection gives pressure \(2I/c\); integrate the axial component \(\cos\theta\) over the hemisphere.
Updated On: Jul 2, 2026
  • \(Wc\)
  • \(\dfrac{W}{c}\)
  • \(\dfrac{W}{2c}\)
  • \(\dfrac{2W}{c}\)
Show Solution

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Use momentum conservation of the light itself. Only the half of the emitted power that enters the cup interacts, carrying power $W/2$. Let the axis point toward the pole of the hemisphere.

Step 2: The net axial momentum rate of the incident (interacting) light is $\dfrac{1}{c}\displaystyle\int \frac{W}{4\pi}\cos\theta\, d\Omega$ over the hemisphere, which equals $\dfrac{W}{4\pi c}(2\pi)\left(\tfrac{1}{2}\right) = \dfrac{W}{4c}$ along $+z$.

Step 3: Perfect reflection reverses every radial ray, so the reflected light carries the same axial momentum rate but along $-z$, that is $-\dfrac{W}{4c}$.

Step 4: The rate of change of the light momentum is the final minus the initial value:
\[\Delta \dot p = -\frac{W}{4c} - \frac{W}{4c} = -\frac{W}{2c}\]
directed along $-z$.

Step 5: By Newton's third law the force on the hemisphere is equal and opposite, of magnitude
\[\boxed{F = \dfrac{W}{2c}}\]
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