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Optics

Of or pertaining to the branch of physics that studies the properties and behavior of light. This includes how light interacts with matter and the instruments used to detect it.

Contributors in Optics

Optics

focal length

Physics; Optics

The distance from the surface of a lens or mirror to the point where the light rays come together to form a clear image.

Huygens

Physics; Optics

Dutch scientist who invented a way to make better lenses for telescopes. He discovered Saturn's fourth satellite.

lens

Physics; Optics

A piece of glass that is shaped in such a way as to form an image. Lenses work by changing the direction of light.

magnifying glass

Physics; Optics

A lens that makes objects look larger than they really are. A magnifying glass has a convex lens.

myopia

Physics; Optics

The condition of being nearsighted. Myopia can be corrected with glasses. It can be corrected by exercise also.

objective lens

Physics; Optics

The lens that is closest to the object being viewed with an instrument such as a telescope or a microscope.

mirror

Physics; Optics

A surface, such as glass coated with a metal, that reflects light. Mirrors gather light in reflecting telescopes.

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