Q1: about how far will the object apear if it was 100yds away?

A: THe only real answer that i cn give you is it would appear 20 to 80 times closer than you see it with the naked eye.

Q2: is this a power zoom binocular?

A: Yes, it is a binocular with variable magnification.

Q3: Is an 80x zoom on a 25mm lens too much, will there be enough light for a clear colorful view - or would you recommend a bigger objective lens for this high zoom power?

A: Dear Thomas, "Too much" and "clear colorful view" are relativistic terms. I do have my own generalized, subjective, opinion which is "yes" for a 25MM objective lens 80x power is "generally speaking - too much." However, I have used these binoculars and there are practical applications for high power compact binoculars such as these. If you need to see a little of something with great magnification and you desire or need easy portability this is the product for you. I recommend them for short term specific viewing applications. They also work well for impressing your friends with big numbers. Eighty power! Oooohh my! However, If you require long term relaxing viewing at this high power you would need a much larger (and heavier and more expensive) spotting scope or astronomical binocular. In this case you would also need a tripod. While I would recommend that these Carson binoculars be "braced" on something steady, this could be accomplished against a tree or in a quick crouching position on a knee or stacked rock wall. The relativistic word with these Carson's is "quick" and "convenient".