Can Our Eyes See Objects in the Nanoscale?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the ability of human eyes to perceive objects at the nanoscale, exploring the limits of visibility and the role of light in this context. Participants consider both theoretical and practical aspects, including the use of optical instruments.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the smallest object visible to the naked eye is influenced by the wavelength of visible light, which ranges from about 400 to 900nm.
  • One participant posits that light cannot be reflected off anything smaller than an electron, claiming it to be the smallest charged particle.
  • There is a discussion about the impact of diffraction on visibility, indicating that objects much smaller than the wavelength of light would be increasingly difficult to see.
  • Several participants highlight the importance of clarifying whether the question pertains to visibility without aids or with optical/electronic instruments, noting significant differences in outcomes.
  • One participant mentions the utility of electron microscopes for observing nanoscale objects, suggesting fundamental limitations in optical instruments.
  • There is a call for the original poster to provide more specific questions to facilitate a more focused discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the specifics of visibility at the nanoscale, and there is no consensus on the smallest object that can be seen or the conditions under which visibility is assessed.

Contextual Notes

The discussion lacks clarity on certain assumptions, such as the definitions of visibility and the conditions under which objects are considered visible. The role of optical instruments versus the naked eye remains a point of contention.

kyphysics
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If so, what are some examples? If not, what is the smallest thing our eyes can see?
 
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As with all questions of this sort, you will get better and more helpful answers if you research the question a bit yourself first. Google for "smallest object we can see", then come back here with any more specific questions you still have.

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=765735
 
To see something requires light to be reflected by it. Light is reflected by causing charges to oscillate.

I would say that you cannot reflect light off of anything smaller than an electron, because I think that an electron is the smallest charged particle.
 
It's worth noting that visible light has a range of wavelengths of about 400 to 900nm. An object that is much smaller than one wavelength will not reflect or obstruct / scatter much of the light because of the diffraction pattern. Seeing would be progressively harder an harder but there is not a simple 'cut-off' As has already been written, it would be best to read around before pursuing this thread further.
 
kyphysics said:
If so, what are some examples? If not, what is the smallest thing our eyes can see?

With or without a microscope or other optical/electronic aid ??

there's a huge difference
 
davenn said:
With or without a microscope or other optical/electronic aid ??

there's a huge difference
Optical instruments can help but there are fundamental limitations. Which is where the Electron Microscope comes in handy.
 
yup which was why I said optical/electronic ;)

The OP's Q was very vague, just trying to find out what he / she really meant

Dave
 
No response from the OP yet. Perhaps we should wait, instead of talking amongst ourselves. :)
 

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