Optics is the branch of physics that deals with interaction of light with matter. The field of optics helps us understand wide variety of phenomena such as reflection, refraction, diffraction and interference of light. Many optical instruments such as lenses, mirrors, microscope and telescopes helps us observes different phenomena in the world. Moreover the field of optics has numerous applications in photography, astronomy, medicine and fiber-optic communication.
What is a mirage? A mirage is a naturally occurring optical illusion that occurs when light bends due to temperature differences in the air and result in making objects appear to be in different location than they are. Sometimes, it also creates a view of a pool of water or a distorted reflection on the … Read more
Do you know what do cameras, eye glasses, telescopes and microscopes have in common? The object at the core of these devices is an optical lens. A lens is a transparent object and light is refracted when it passes through the lens. Lens is used in many optical instruments such as cameras, microscope, telescope, optical … Read more
Binoculars are interesting devices that helps us in viewing distant objects with some level of magnification. It can be used for many things such as sporting events, star gazing, bird watching along with many different natural views. How it works? The below diagram shows the construction of a typical binocular: In order to understand the … Read more
A sundial is an ancient timekeeping device which uses the position of the sun to indicate the time of day. It has been in use well before the advent of mechanical clocks. Sundial typically has two components namely a flat plate usually known as the dial and a stick or triangular piece called as gnomon. … Read more
Air is certainly the most important thing in our life. In fact that’s what keeps us alive. With air, we maintain certain pressure in the tires of our vehicles to keep ourselves moving. We fill our birthday balloons with air. We fly airplanes in air using aerodynamic principles. It helps us burning various fuels for … Read more
While travelling on highways during night, one thing you might have noticed that the signboards along the highways are almost always visible. Moreover they appear to glow as your vehicle approaches the signboards. Have you wondered what might have caused these signboards to glow during night? Surely there is some kind of reflection of light … Read more
What is Periscope? A periscope is an optical instrument which is used to see objects that are not in the direct line of sight of observer. It is commonly used in such areas or places where the viewer is hidden or protected such as in submarines to observe surface above water. Working Principle Periscope works … Read more
A solar lighter works by concentrating the sunlight to create enough heat to ignite a combustible material. How it works? The working of solar lighter is as follows: 1. Reflective or Focusing Surface Solar lighters use a parabolic mirror (often made of metal) to focus sunlight into a single, intense point. The mirror has concave … Read more