What Experiments Can I Conduct to Investigate Light Sensitive Devices?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on conducting experiments with Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs) and other light-sensitive devices for an Advanced Higher Physics investigation. Key experiments suggested include demonstrating linear response using identical light sources and exploring the inverse square law with distance. Additionally, the impact of light frequency changes on LDRs is highlighted, with recommendations to utilize optical filters and a power meter for accurate measurements. The conversation emphasizes starting with simpler experiments, such as using a single photodiode before advancing to more complex setups.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs)
  • Basic knowledge of optical filters and their applications
  • Familiarity with photodiodes and their I-V characteristics
  • Experience with op-amp photocurrent amplifier circuits
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the use of optical filters in light-sensitive device experiments
  • Learn about the inverse square law and its application in light intensity measurements
  • Investigate the construction and functionality of op-amp photocurrent amplifiers
  • Explore the frequency response of photodiodes and how to measure it effectively
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, particularly those focusing on optics and electronic devices, as well as hobbyists interested in DIY electronics and light-sensitive technology.

Taksehasam
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Summary:: Need help with LDR's, experiments/ investigations

I need to do an Investigation on Light Sensitive Devices, what 3 experiments could I do with similar aims that are somehow related, also does anyone know how different filters on light - frequency changes affect LDR's or where I could find more information on this?
 
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Taksehasam said:
Summary:: Need help with LDR's, experiments/ investigations

I need to do an Investigation on Light Sensitive Devices, what 3 experiments could I do with similar aims that are somehow related, also does anyone know how different filters on light - frequency changes affect LDR's or where I could find more information on this?
Welcome to the PF. :smile:

We need you to show your efforts on your homework question before we can offer much tutorial help. What are your thoughts so far?

Also, is a human pupil considered a "light sensitive device" for this assignment?
 
berkeman said:
Welcome to the PF. :smile:

We need you to show your efforts on your homework question before we can offer much tutorial help. What are your thoughts so far?

Also, is a human pupil considered a "light sensitive device" for this assignment?

This isn't a homework question it's my Investigation for Advanced Higher Physics, little help is given by the teacher in regard to the aim and how to do the experiment. I was considering doing light filters with a Light Sensitive Devices for one experiment. The other two I'm not sure yet but I've thought about doing a simple light intensity and distance away frkm the Device. What kind of Light Sensitive Devices could I compare in these and what convulsions would be drawn? I also got a hint regarding the frequency of the light and how fast the device reacts to different frequencies as something I should do in the Investigation.Any other ideas are welcome.

Sorry for posting in the wrong place, it's my first post :)

P.s a human eye would not be considered a Light Sensitive Device
 
Taksehasam said:
I also got a hint regarding the frequency of the light and how fast the device reacts to different frequencies as something I should do in the Investigation.
The electronic frequency response is generally wavelength independent, and can be measured by modulating the incident light with a high speed chopper or other device. The wavelength response is found alternatively by seeing how the device responds to light of different wavelengths. This experiment requires optical filters and also a power meter with a flat spectral response that can measure the input power. Suggest you begin with something simpler than these two experiments. Building an op-amp photocurrent amplifier would be a good starting point.
Suggestion @berkeman would be to move this thread to the DIY section. It is a lot different than a typical homework problem.
 
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See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photodiode
If you look at the I-V curve in this "link", you can see you get a linear response if you measure the photocurrent at or near zero voltage, as opposed to measuring the output voltage of the device. The op-amp current amplifier circuit is ideal for this purpose.
To give you a little background info, individual photodiodes should still be commercially available that have areas nearly 1.0 cm^2. In many cases, they are now also manufacturing focal plane arrays for cell phone cameras etc. where they may put more than a million pixels inside an area of 1.0 cm^2. I think you would do well to work with a single photodiode before experimenting with focal plane arrays.
 
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