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Main content
Physics

Geometric optics

Physics

Geometric optics

Lessons

Reflection and refraction

Learn
Specular and diffuse reflection
(Opens a modal)
Specular and diffuse reflection 2
(Opens a modal)
Refraction and Snell's law
(Opens a modal)
Refraction in water
(Opens a modal)
Snell's law example 1
(Opens a modal)
Snell's law example 2
(Opens a modal)
Total internal reflection
(Opens a modal)
Dispersion
(Opens a modal)

Mirrors

Learn
Virtual image
(Opens a modal)
Parabolic mirrors and real images
(Opens a modal)
Parabolic mirrors 2
(Opens a modal)
Convex parabolic mirrors
(Opens a modal)
Derivation of the mirror equation
(Opens a modal)
Mirror equation example problems
(Opens a modal)

Lenses

Learn
Convex lenses
(Opens a modal)
Convex lens examples
(Opens a modal)
Concave lenses
(Opens a modal)
Object image and focal distance relationship (proof of formula)
(Opens a modal)
Object image height and distance relationship
(Opens a modal)
Thin lens equation and problem solving
(Opens a modal)
Multiple lens systems
(Opens a modal)
Diopters, Aberration, and the Human Eye
(Opens a modal)

About this unit

Light waves can be bent and reflected to form new and sometimes altered images. Understanding how light rays can be manipulated allows us to create better contact lenses, fiber optic cables, and high powered telescopes.