What is the speed of light in a vacuum?

Prepare for the Texas Aandamp;M University CHEM107 Exam 2. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Maximize your chemistry knowledge and ensure exam success!

The speed of light in a vacuum is approximately 3.0 x 10^8 meters per second. This value is universally recognized and is a fundamental constant in physics, often denoted by the letter "c." The speed of light is significant in various equations and theories, including Einstein's theory of relativity, where it plays a crucial role in understanding the relationship between space and time.

The reason this value is particularly relevant is its implications in both theoretical and applied physics. For instance, it determines the ultimate speed at which information and matter can travel in the universe. The precise and consistent measurement of this speed is vital for technologies such as GPS and telecommunications, as well as for the scientific understanding of electromagnetic waves.

Other choices like 3.0 x 10^6 m/s and 3.0 x 10^9 m/s are too small and too large, respectively, to reflect the accepted value of the speed of light. The option 3.0 x 10^10 m/s is also incorrect because it exceeds the established constant, which has been confirmed by a multitude of experiments over time. The choice of 3.0 x 10^8 m/s aligns with scientific consensus and empirical data, making it the

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