This unit was all about optics, with a focus on studying how light travels through lenses. Lenses are used in a variety of everyday object and tools that we are familiar with, so it is important to learn how these instrument work and utilize lenses. In this unit, we explored the role of lenses in telescopes, cameras, as well as exploring the thin lens equation and how light, brightness and distance are related.
Terms:
- Real image - An image formed by converging light rays.
- Virtual image - Originates from a location where light does not actually reach.
- Focal length - The distance between the center of the lens and the focal point.
- Converging lens - Also known as convex lens. Thicker in the middle, causing parallel rays of light to meet at a single point (the focal point).
- Diverging lens - Also known as a concave lens. Thinner in the middle, causing rays of light to appear to originate from a single point.
- Objective lens - The lens closest to the object.
- Eyepiece - The lens closest to the eye. The second lens of a telescope that you look through.
- Ray diagram - A diagram that shows the principle rays that can be used to determine the size and location of an image.
- Depth of field - the range at which an image in in focus.
