Leumas Physics

Rayleigh Resolution Limit

theta_r = 1.22·λ / D_ap

What it says

The smallest angle a telescope or eye can resolve, set by diffraction at the aperture.

Symbols

SymbolQuantityDimension
theta_rAngular resolution (rad)1
λWavelength (m)L
D_apAperture diameter (m)L

Work it out

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Filed under Optics · derive through it in the explorer