Instrument Size & Wavelength: What's the Relationship?

In summary, the size of an instrument is related to the wavelength it can measure. This is similar to Heisenberg Uncertainty relations and diffraction limits for cameras. Large instruments are needed to detect large wavelength waves while smaller instruments are needed for smaller wavelength waves. Some instruments must have dimensions comparable to the wavelength for resonance to occur. The general principles for sizing an instrument depend on what is being optimized, such as noise and information. This is similar to how a piccolo cannot sound like a tuba and how the opening of The Rite of Spring by Stravinsky caused a riot because a bassoon was played in a high register.
  • #1
accdd
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What is the relationship between the size of the instrument and the wavelength you want to measure? Both in general relativity and in other areas.
 
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There are many limits which look like Heisenberg Uncertainty relations that follow from the Cauchy-Schwartz Inequality. Like diffraction limits for a camera.
What is your particular question?
 
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  • #3
Why do we need large instruments to detect waves with large wavelengths? Why can't we detect smaller wavelength waves with large instruments (and viceversa)?
I have also read that some instruments must have dimensions comparable to the wavelength that allows the phenomenon of resonance. What are the general principles for sizing an instrument?
 
  • #4
accdd said:
Why do we need large instruments to detect waves with large wavelengths? Why can't we detect smaller wavelength waves with large instruments (and viceversa)?
For the same reason that one cannot make a piccolo sound like a tuba.
accdd said:
I have also read that some instruments must have dimensions comparable to the wavelength that allows the phenomenon of resonance. What are the general principles for sizing an instrument?
It depends upon what you are trying to optimize. There are fundamental limits that deal with noise and information. Resonance allows maximizing signal to noise but the cost is specificity of detection.
 
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  • #5
hutchphd said:
For the same reason that one cannot make a piccolo sound like a tuba.
Did you know that the opening of The Rite of Spring by Stravinsky is a bassoon played in a high register?

 
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  • #6
PeroK said:
id you know that the opening of The Rite of Spring by Stravinsky is a bassoon played in a high register?
Hence the rioting at the premiere.
 
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1. What is the relationship between instrument size and wavelength?

The relationship between instrument size and wavelength is known as the diffraction limit. This means that the resolution of an instrument is limited by the size of its aperture, or opening, and the wavelength of the light being used. In general, the smaller the aperture and the shorter the wavelength, the better the resolution of the instrument.

2. How does the size of an instrument affect its ability to detect different wavelengths?

The size of an instrument affects its ability to detect different wavelengths in several ways. First, a larger instrument can collect more light, which allows it to detect fainter sources at all wavelengths. Second, the size of the instrument's aperture determines its resolution, which affects its ability to distinguish between sources of different wavelengths. Third, some instruments are designed to only detect certain wavelengths, so their size may not affect their ability to detect different wavelengths.

3. Can an instrument detect all wavelengths of light?

No, an instrument cannot detect all wavelengths of light. Different instruments are designed to detect different ranges of wavelengths. For example, a radio telescope is designed to detect radio waves, while an optical telescope is designed to detect visible light. In addition, the diffraction limit mentioned earlier means that even an instrument designed to detect a wide range of wavelengths will have limitations based on its size and the wavelengths being observed.

4. How does the size of an instrument affect its cost and complexity?

The size of an instrument can greatly affect its cost and complexity. Generally, larger instruments are more expensive to build and maintain, and they may require more complex technology to operate. In addition, larger instruments may require more specialized facilities and infrastructure, adding to the overall cost and complexity. However, larger instruments also have the potential for higher resolution and sensitivity, which can lead to more significant scientific discoveries.

5. Are there any limitations to increasing the size of an instrument?

Yes, there are limitations to increasing the size of an instrument. As mentioned before, the diffraction limit sets a limit on the resolution of an instrument based on its size and the wavelength of light being used. Additionally, larger instruments may be more susceptible to atmospheric interference and other environmental factors. There may also be practical limitations, such as the availability of funding and suitable locations for installation. Finally, there may be diminishing returns as the size of an instrument increases, meaning the cost and complexity may outweigh the potential scientific benefits.

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