Optics — 54 Terms Defined

Optics

The interference phenomenon occurring when light waves reflected from the top and bottom boundaries of a thin transparent film superimpose.

2 n t cos θ = m λ (Constructive with phase shift) m

Optics

The complete reflection of a light ray inside an optically denser medium when striking the boundary with a rarer medium at an angle…

sin θ_c = n2 / n1 (where n1 > n2) Degrees (°)

Optics

The scattering of a light beam by colloidal particles or tiny suspended matter in a fine suspension or transparent medium.

N/A N/A

Optics

An optical image formed where light rays appear to diverge from, but do not actually intersect; cannot be projected on a screen.

v < 0 (for virtual image), m > 0 (upright) m

Optics

The angle subtended at the eye's nodal point by an object, determining the size of the image formed on the retina.

θ ≈ h / d (in radians for small angles) rad (or arcminutes ')

Optics

The classic experiment demonstrating wave-particle duality and wave nature of light via interference fringes produced by coherent light…

y_m = m λ D / d (Bright), y_m = (m + ½) λ D / d (Dark) m