Calculating Eye Resolution at Different Distances

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    Eye Resolution
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the resolution of the human eye when observing two lines that are 0.25mm apart at varying distances. Participants explore the relationship between distance, angular resolution, and the ability to distinguish between the lines.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests varying the distance from the eye to the lines and noting the distance at which the lines appear to merge, proposing that the angle can be approximated using the sine function.
  • Another participant indicates that the resolution can be expressed in terms of the actual width of the observed object, relating it to the distance and the previously mentioned angle.
  • There are inquiries about how changes in lighting (lux) affect eye resolution, indicating a potential area of exploration beyond the initial topic.
  • Some participants mention eye resolutions in various animals, although this point does not directly relate to the human eye resolution discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple approaches and ideas regarding the calculation of eye resolution, but there is no consensus on a single method or conclusion. The discussion remains unresolved with various viewpoints expressed.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the conditions under which resolution is measured, such as lighting and distance, are not fully explored. The mathematical relationships proposed are based on approximations that may depend on specific definitions or contexts.

alex_boothby
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hey how would you work out resolution of an human eye at defeerent distances looking at 2 lines 0.25mm apart?


cheers alex
 
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I guess you just vary the distance of your eye to the two lines, starting from a point where you can see the 2 lines distinctly. The exact point where the two lines seem to merge and you cannot see the space between them, you note this distance ,d. Since d is very large compared to the width, the angle between the 2 lines is approx (sin(a) = 0.25/d)

The angular resolution of the eye would therefore be (a) That is, you can only see distinctly a width that sweeps out an angle (a) or more from where you are standing.

hope this helps.
 
Last edited:
if you want the resolution in terms or the actaul width of the object you are observing, it is width= (distance of your eye to object) x sin(a) which you found earlier.
 
Eye resolutions for various animals.
 

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ne1 kno much about resolution when u change the lux in the surroundings?
 
kmarinas86 said:
Eye resolutions for various animals.
Unfortunately, my eye resolution isn't good enough for me to read that. :frown:
 

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