4-250watt vs. 1-1000watt

I am curious to know if you grouped 4 250watt bulbs close to each other would it be any different then running a single 1000watt bulb would it have to be closer or would the combined light allow a farther distance from plants. I'm inclined to think the later. thanks

Sorry if this is a common question I've been reading here a lot but never saw this asked

4 250 does not make a 1000w, you can grow a bunch of small plants or a few large plants. The 1000w has the best penetration, up to 4.5 feet. 250 18"

Thanks thats what I wanted to know. Not that I actually planned to use 4 250's I was just curious to the question thanks.