Moderate

The equation θ = 1.22 λ/D was devised by_______________?

Correct answer: C. Raleigh

  • A. Newton
  • B. Einstein
  • C. Raleigh
  • D. Planks

Explanation

The relation θ = 1.22λ/D is the Rayleigh criterion for the angular resolution of a circular aperture, where θ is in radians, λ is the wavelength in metres and D is the aperture diameter in metres. It describes the diffraction limit at which two images are just resolvable. The likely mistake is choosing Newton because diffraction is an optical effect, but this specific resolution criterion is associated with Rayleigh.

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About Optics

Light is studied through reflection, refraction, dispersion, interference, diffraction and polarization, linking ray behavior with its wave nature. Questions may involve mirrors, lenses, optical instruments, refractive index and image formation, while geometrical optics deals with rays and wave optics explains effects such as interference and diffraction.

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