Geometric Optics vs. Wave Optics: Avoid Optical Pitfalls Part 1

Sept. 6, 2024
Geometric Optics vs. Wave Optics

Often people working in optics and photonics confuse geometric optics with wave optics, but they aren’t the same thing!  Geometric optics treats the propagation of light in terms of “rays”, where each ray travels in a straight line. But in wave optics, we consider the propagation of light in terms of electromagnetic waves.  

Since light has a dual nature, both geometric optics and wave optics are relevant and incredibly useful in their own way.  Geometric optics is most relevant when light reacts with objects several times larger than the light’s wavelength. It’s when light interacts with very small objects— smaller than you can see with your naked eyes— that the wave characteristics come into the foreground. 

The path of light in geometrical optics is determined by the laws of reflection and refraction at the interface between different media.  Wave optics predicts interference and diffraction, two important concepts that geometric optics can’t explain.

This article is the first of a series on “Avoid Optical Pitfalls”. Each article will look at a topic that is often confused, and provide a brief, easy-to-understand explanation of the key foundational concepts involved.

Wave optics enable us to understand why light separates into colors on a soap bubble. 

To read the entire article, visit Avantier's website.

Sponsored Recommendations

Demonstrating Flexible, Powerful 5-axis Laser Micromachining

Sept. 18, 2024
Five-axis scan heads offer fast and flexible solutions for generating precise holes, contoured slots and other geometries with fully defined cross sections. With a suitable system...

Optical Filter Orientation Guide

Sept. 5, 2024
Ensure optimal performance of your optical filters with our Orientation Guide. Learn the correct placement and handling techniques to maximize light transmission and filter efficiency...

Advanced Spectral Accuracy: Excitation Filters

Sept. 5, 2024
Enhance your fluorescence experiments with our Excitation Filters. These filters offer superior transmission and spectral accuracy, making them ideal for exciting specific fluorophores...

Raman Filter Sets for Accurate Spectral Data

Sept. 5, 2024
Enhance your Raman spectroscopy with our specialized Raman Filter Sets. Designed for high precision, these filters enable clear separation of Raman signals from laser excitation...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!