The Inverse Square Law
The intensity of light (or any radiation) follows the inverse square law. This means:
* If you double the distance, the intensity decreases by a factor of four.
* If you triple the distance, the intensity decreases by a factor of nine.
Applying it to Earth
If Earth were twice as far from the Sun, the intensity of sunlight would be one-quarter of what it is now.
What this means for Earth:
* Significantly colder temperatures: Earth would experience much colder temperatures, potentially leading to a global ice age.
* Less energy for plants: Photosynthesis would be much less efficient, impacting the entire food chain.
* Dimmer sunlight: The sun would appear much less bright in the sky.
Important Note: This is a simplified explanation. The actual impact on Earth's climate would be much more complex, considering factors like changes in atmospheric composition and the Earth's orbital path.
