optics lesson (1-4) Flashcards
What is a luminous object?
An object that radiates light in all directions
An example of a luminous object is a candle.
Define a light ray.
A line and arrow representing the direction and straight-line path of light
Light rays help determine how light behaves when it strikes various surfaces.
How does a laser differ from a typical luminous object?
A laser emits light rays all in the same direction (parallel)
This is in contrast to a candle, which radiates light in all directions.
What happens when light interacts with matter?
- Reflection
- Transmission
- Absorption
These interactions can result in light being reflected back, transmitted through the object, or absorbed.
What is incident light?
Light that strikes a surface, such as sunlight hitting the Earth
Incident light is crucial for understanding how light behaves in different environments.
What are the three types of materials based on light interaction?
- Transparent
- Translucent
- Opaque
These categories describe how light passes through different materials.
What is an example of a transparent material?
Clear glass
Transparent materials allow objects behind them to be easily seen.
What characterizes a translucent material?
It does not allow you to see objects behind it clearly
An example of a translucent material is frosted glass.
What is an opaque material?
A material that absorbs or reflects all light, preventing visibility of objects behind it
Examples of opaque materials include cardboard and walls.
What does LASER stand for?
Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation
The first laser was built in 1960 by Theodore H. Maiman.
What are some applications of lasers?
- Medicine
- Industry
- Distance measurement
Lasers are used in various fields due to their intensity and precision.
What type of energy do lasers produce?
Electromagnetic waves of one energy level
This means that all waves emitted from a laser are of the same color or wavelength.
What is the significance of the energy level in lasers?
Lasers can produce many colors based on different energy levels
This property allows for various applications in technology and science.
Fill in the blank: A high-energy laser is _______ and so concentrated that it can cut materials.
intense
High-energy lasers have specific applications in cutting and engraving.
True or False: All electromagnetic waves emitted from a laser travel in different directions.
False
All electromagnetic waves emitted from a laser travel in the same direction.
