Optics

Diffraction Grating Spectrometer.

Learn the Fundamentals of the Diffraction Grating Spectrometer

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Introduction In this article, we will discuss the fundamentals of the diffraction grating spectrometer.  The operation of the instrument is based upon…
What is the double split

What is the Double Slit? A 5 Minute Introduction

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Definition/Summary The double-slit is a simple configuration used to demonstrate interference effects in waves.Equations At distances that are…
lensfocus

Lenses and Pinholes: What Does “In Focus” Mean?

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Introduction In introductory physics, the optics unit often teaches about virtual and real images, focal lengths, indexes of refraction, etc. Some questions…
cameralense

Ultra-Wide-Angle Lenses: Design, Use, and Guide

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Note, unless otherwise specified, all focal lengths are in terms of the 35mm image format. Overview: why ultra-wide-angle lenses matter Recently there…
diffractiontheory

The Diffraction Limited Spot Size with Perfect Focusing

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Purpose The purpose of this Insights article is to give the reader a brief introduction to the principles behind diffraction-limited focusing. The reader…
inferometer

Fabry-Perot and Michelson Interferometry: A Fundamental Approach

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Fabry-Perot Effect: The Fabry-Perot effect is usually treated in most optics textbooks as the interference that results from multiple reflections of the…
dslr

DSLR Guide: Lenses, Aberrations, Filters & Techniques

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Part 1: Introduction Part 2: Compact Point and Shoot Part 3: DSLR Part 4: TripodsI'm ready for a DSLR! These cameras were originally designed…
Photoacoustic

Light and Sound Interactions: Photoacoustic & Acousto-Optic

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Introduction I recently wrote a post on my blog about a fairly esoteric idea regarding sound propagating through light. This inspired me to write an…
rainbows

Exploration into the Physics of Rainbows

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For several years, I have been contemplating this beautiful picture by photographer Brian McPhee. I have a personal interest in the photograph because…
photonsmedium

Do Photons Move Slower in a Solid Medium?

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Scope and context This question appears often because it has been shown that in a normal, dispersive solid such as glass, the speed of light is slower…