In the context of diffraction, what does the term 'resolution' refer to?
Practice Questions
Q1
In the context of diffraction, what does the term 'resolution' refer to?
The ability to distinguish between two closely spaced objects
The intensity of the diffracted light
The wavelength of the light used
The width of the slit
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
In the context of diffraction, what does the term 'resolution' refer to?
Step 1: Understand that diffraction is a phenomenon that occurs when waves, like light, bend around obstacles or spread out after passing through small openings.
Step 2: Know that when we look at two objects that are very close together, we want to see them as separate objects rather than as one blurry object.
Step 3: Realize that 'resolution' is the term used to describe how well we can distinguish between these two close objects.
Step 4: Remember that diffraction can limit our ability to see these objects clearly, making them appear blurry or merged together.
Step 5: Conclude that higher resolution means we can see the two objects more clearly, while lower resolution means they look more like one object.
