Understanding Optical Equivalent Path: Differences and Similarities

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of optical equivalent path and its relation to optical path length. It is mentioned that this concept is related to refractive index and can affect the distance traveled by light waves in certain applications. The conversation also mentions a patent application where the term is used in reference to a camera pentaprism.
  • #1
jishitha
23
0
Actually,. What is optical equivalent path.,.? Is this and optical path length are same,.,.,??
 
Science news on Phys.org
  • #2
the first thing that comes to mind is that this is to do with refractive index.For example light slows down in glass, water etc and the wavelength becomes shorter. In some applications such as interference this means that the 'physical distance' becomes a different (greater) distance as far as the waves are concerned.
Hope that this is some help although I am not certain that it is a complete explanation.
 
  • #3
Where did you see the phrase "optical equivalent path"?

I did a Google search for it, putting it in quotes as shown above in order to keep the words together in the search. Besides this very thread, and links to it, I found only a U.S. patent application for a camera pentaprism. There, it seems to mean the same thing as "optical path length."
 

1. What is optical equivalent path?

Optical equivalent path refers to the distance traveled by light in an optical system, taking into account the effects of refraction and reflection. It is the path that light follows through an optical system, which may differ from the actual physical distance due to the bending of light.

2. How is optical equivalent path different from physical distance?

The physical distance is the actual distance between two points in an optical system, while the optical equivalent path takes into account the bending of light and may be longer or shorter than the physical distance.

3. What are the factors that affect optical equivalent path?

The main factors that affect optical equivalent path are the refractive index of the medium through which light travels, the curvature of the optical surfaces, and the angle of incidence of the light.

4. Can optical equivalent path be measured?

Yes, optical equivalent path can be measured using specialized instruments such as interferometers or optical profilometers. These instruments can accurately measure the path length traveled by light in an optical system.

5. What are the applications of understanding optical equivalent path?

Understanding optical equivalent path is important in the design and analysis of optical systems, such as lenses, mirrors, and prisms. It is also crucial in fields such as optics, astronomy, and microscopy, where precise measurement and control of the path of light is essential.

Similar threads

A Calculating the optical depth of an inhomogeous gas
    • Optics
Replies
1
Views
882
I Photodetector Output & Refractive Index of FO Cladding/Coating
    • Optics
Replies
1
Views
1K
A Thought experiments suggest problem with published work
    • Optics
Replies
8
Views
1K
I Optical pumping vs Rabi cycle - what is the difference between their conditions?
    • Optics
Replies
5
Views
1K
I Why do we use low-coherence light in Optical Coherence Tomography?
    • Optics
Replies
1
Views
1K
A A double slit thought experiment leading to a paradox
    • Optics
Replies
4
Views
1K
Evaluate the outgoing radiation from an optical fiber on a surface
    • Optics
Replies
1
Views
1K
Is there a limit to how steep the refractive index gradient can be
    • Optics
Replies
6
Views
1K
Difference between optical and geometrical length in optical path
    • Optics
Replies
5
Views
28K
Controlling output light power by constructive/destructive interference
    • Optics
Replies
5
Views
885

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top