Optics Problem: What optical instrument does this?

Thread starter e101101
Start date Oct 27, 2019
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Instrument Optical Optics optics problem

In summary, an optical instrument is a device that uses lenses or mirrors to manipulate light and enhance our ability to see objects. The main types of optical instruments are refracting, reflecting, and diffracting instruments. They work by bending and reflecting light, and have various applications in fields such as medicine, astronomy, and photography. When choosing an optical instrument, factors such as magnification power, resolution, and type should be considered.

Oct 27, 2019

e101101

Homework Statement: Imagine you are using this (2 converging lens system) to image a stellar object with an angular spread of α. (This means, that the object is so far away, that the rays coming from the top of the object arrive at the lens system as plane waves at one angle, and the rays coming from the bottom of the object also arrive at the lens system as plane waves, but at a different angle, and the difference between those angles is α.
Describe the characteristics of the “image”. What optical instrument does this remind you of?

Relevant Equations: none

Im thinking that this is a telescope, but I am having a lot of trouble answering this question.

If the plane waves arrive at different angles, wouldn't the image be distorted?Would the lenses possibly be spherical because of this?

Last edited: Oct 28, 2019

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Oct 28, 2019

BvU

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

Make some sketches. Where do plane waves converge ?

1. What is an optical instrument?

An optical instrument is a device that uses lenses, mirrors, or other materials to manipulate light in order to produce images or enhance visual perception.

2. What are some examples of optical instruments?

Some examples of optical instruments include microscopes, telescopes, cameras, spectrophotometers, and eyeglasses.

3. How do optical instruments work?

Optical instruments work by using lenses, mirrors, or other materials to refract, reflect, or diffract light in a controlled manner. This allows them to produce magnified images, correct vision, or measure the properties of light.

4. What is the difference between a refractive and a reflective optical instrument?

A refractive optical instrument, such as a microscope, uses lenses to bend light and form an image. A reflective optical instrument, such as a telescope, uses mirrors to reflect and focus light to form an image.

5. How is an optical instrument designed?

The design of an optical instrument depends on its intended purpose and can involve complex calculations and engineering. Generally, the instrument must have a system of lenses, mirrors, or other materials that properly manipulate light to achieve its desired function.