Paraxial Rays: Definition & Diagrams

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Ashu2912
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SUMMARY

Paraxial rays are defined as rays that do not deviate significantly from the optical axis, characterized by the approximation sin(q) ~ q. These rays are typically associated with systems that have a large f-number and low numerical aperture (NA). Understanding paraxial rays is crucial for optical design and analysis, particularly in applications involving lenses and imaging systems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of optics and light propagation
  • Familiarity with optical axis concepts
  • Knowledge of f-numbers and numerical aperture (NA)
  • Experience with ray tracing techniques in optical systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of ray tracing in optical design software
  • Explore the relationship between f-number and depth of field in photography
  • Learn about the impact of numerical aperture on image resolution
  • Investigate paraxial approximation in lens design and its applications
USEFUL FOR

Optical engineers, physicists, and students studying optics who seek to deepen their understanding of ray behavior in optical systems.

Ashu2912
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Can someone tell me what are paraxial rays in brief. It would be better if there will be some diagram or visual!
 
Science news on Phys.org
Paraxial rays are rays that don't deviate very much- sin(q) ~ q. Alternatively, these are rays that are always close to the optical axis- large f-number, low NA systems.
 

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