Optics

Why is the sky blue? Why are sunsets red? Why does light bend upon entering substances such as water? Why does white light spread out into colors after passing through a particular piece of glass? How does light travel from the sun to the Earth through space without a medium to transport it?

Throughout the years of history, light has been an object of constant fascination for humans due to its mysterious and uncontrollable nature. As mankind became more advanced, science has partially unraveled this natural wonder. In ancient civilizations, mirrors have been used. Spectacles and other eyewear were invented in the thirteenth century. The microscope and telescope followed each other closely during Galileo’s time. With the coming of the Scientific Revolution and with the works of Isaac Newton and other great scientists, light has become more understandable. However, as more discoveries have been made, more questions have arrived.

Optics is the study of light and vision in science and engineering. Light is generally defined as the sector of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be viewed with the naked eye. This range is located between the infrared and ultraviolet radiation spectrums. In today’s technological society, optics has played an important role in making our daily lives easier (e.g. CD players, fax machines, spy satellites). In addition, fiber optics has opened new opportunities and possibilities in communication and medicine.

In this website we will:

Investigate geometrical optics, the basic optical phenomenon of refraction and reflection.
Learn about the general properties of mirrors and lenses by applying geometrical optics.
Study the two modern models of light: the wave/particle theory, as well as the experiments that support each model.
Examine optical instruments that enhance our visual perception of the world.
Introduce important scientists that have made breakthrough discoveries and crucial contributions in the field of Optics.
Teach important terminology and formulas dealing with Optics.
Explore modern practical uses of Optics.

The information presented in this website is organized into the five categories, which are accessible via the menu at the upper left. Clicking on lessons will bring you to an outline of topics concerning Light and Optics where you may browse to whatever section you wish. It is recommended for those with little knowledge of optics to browse through the lessons in order. Terms and formulas will bring you to a comprehensive listing of terms and mathematical formulas related to optics, respectively. Scientists who have made notable achievements in the field are also listed under terms. Clicking on discuss will bring you to a message board where you may freely discuss problems with other visitors and present your own theories related to optics. Finally, the links section will bring you to a list of alternative websites and resources concerning optics, many of which have helped us considerably in the creation of this website.