Most introductory optics lab activities begin with students locating the real image formed by a converging lens. The method is simple and straightforward--students move a screen back and forth until the real image is in sharp focus on the screen. Students then draw a simple ray diagram to explain the observation using only two or three special…

Prior studies of time-to-contact (TTC) focused on judgments of unoccluded approaching objects. P. R. DeLucia, M. K. Kaiser, J. M. Bush, L. E. Meyer, and B. T. Sweet (2003) showed that partial occlusion decreases an object's optical size and expansion rate and that the value of tau derived from the reduced optical size (relative rate of accretion;…

Although considerable progress has been made in understanding how adults perceive their direction of self-motion, or heading, from optic flow, little is known about how these perceptual processes develop in infants. In 3 experiments, the authors explored how well 3- to 6-month-old infants could discriminate between optic flow patterns that…

This article explores the transmission of practical knowledge in the XV and XVI centuries. According to cosmographer Egnatio Danti, optics and other mathematical sciences had "been banished" from the main philosophical schools of his period, and "the little which remains to us is limited to some practical aspects learned from the mechanical…

This paper presents and discusses examples of works of art which, if included in science curricula, could prompt an understanding by students of some concepts in optics through a discussion of the context in which they were created. Such discussion would elucidate the meaning of the artworks and, at the same time, challenge students'…

Infrared thermal imaging is a valuable tool in physics education at the university level. It can help to visualize and thereby enhance understanding of physical phenomena from mechanics, thermal physics, electromagnetism, optics and radiation physics, qualitatively as well as quantitatively. We report on its use as lecture demonstrations, student…

This study examines four months of online discourse of 22 Grade 4 students engaged in efforts to advance their understanding of optics. Their work is part of a school-wide knowledge building initiative, the essence of which is giving students collective responsibility for idea improvement. This goal is supported by software--Knowledge…

A simple and cost-effective experiment for the development and characterization of semiconductors using Uv-vis spectroscopy is described. The study shows that the optical properties of ZnO films can be easily modified by forming Zn[subscript 1-x] Co[subscript x]O solid solutions via spray pyrolysis.

Describes Fraunhofer's scientific career as a glass and lens maker, a discoverer of dark lines in the solar spectrum, a corrector of lens aberration, and investigator of diffraction. Gives biographical data and anecdotes. Includes a bibliography, mainly of German sources. (GH)

Reports interference fringes that appear when a loaded plate of transparent non-crystalline plastic is placed between crossed polars; describes polarization of light sources and the origin of the analyzing polarizer. (GS)

In this textbook, which was written for the professional photography student, both photographic theory and practice are thoroughly explained. The author examines the principles of light and the properties of lenses and gives a detailed evaluation of camera movement, camera shutters, and the camera as a whole. He outlines the manufacture and…

A short history of Newton's work in optics, mathematics, and astronomy. (BB)

Discusses how to stop a spinning object (such as rotating fan blades) by humming and the perception of curious blue arcs around a light. Background information, relevant research, and activities related to these two topics are provided. (JN)