Optical axis

Optical Axis

The Optical Axis is a line that defines the path along which light propagates in an optical system. The optical axis is a concept used in optics and physics, particularly in the study of lenses and mirrors.

Definition

In an optical system, the optical axis is defined as the line along which there is no change in the direction of light. This is also known as the principal axis. In a symmetrical system, the optical axis is also the axis of symmetry.

Optical Systems

In an optical system, the optical axis is a central concept. It is the line along which light travels without being deviated. In a simple lens, the optical axis is a straight line through the center of the lens. In more complex systems, such as telescopes or microscopes, the optical axis may be a more complex path.

In Lenses and Mirrors

In lenses and mirrors, the optical axis is the line passing through the center of the lens or mirror and perpendicular to its surface. For a lens, this is the line along which light is focused. For a mirror, this is the line along which light is reflected.

In Optical Instruments

In optical instruments, the optical axis is the line along which light travels from the object to the observer. This is the line that the observer looks along to see the object. In a telescope, for example, the optical axis is the line from the distant object, through the telescope, to the observer's eye.

See Also

• Lens (optics)
• Mirror (optics)
• Optical system
• Telescope
• Microscope