Dictionary > Airy disk

Airy disk

Airy disk
(Science: microscopy) The image of a bright point object as focused by a lens system. With monochromatic light, it consists of a central point of maximum intensity surrounded by alternate circles of light and darkness caused by the reinforcement and interference of diffracted rays. The light areas are called maxima and the dark areas minima. The distribution of light from the centre to the outer areas of the figure was investigated mathematically by Sir George airy. The diffraction disk forms a basis for determining the resolving power of an ideal lens system. The diameter of the disk depends largely on the aperture of the lens. The diffraction of light causing the airy disk is a factor limiting the resolution of a well corrected optical system.
The bright disk of light (surrounded by alternating dark and bright diffraction rings)that is formed by a perfect diffraction-limited lens, focusing an image of an infinitely small source of light. For a minute absorbing spot, the diffraction pattern is a dark airy disk surrounded by brighter and darker diffraction rings. Since the airy disk is the smallest unit that makes up the image of a luminous or absorbing object (formed by a properly corrected microscope lens in focus), the radius of the disk determines the limit of resolution of the microsc
396
ope.


You will also like...

Birth Control and Contraception
Birth Control and Contraception

Different pregnancy and birth control and contraception strategies are described. Read this tutorial to learn each of th..

squirrel
Animal Water Regulation

Animals adapt to their environment in aspects of anatomy, physiology, and behavior. This tutorial will help you understa..

Peppered moth ("Biston betularia") melanic and light form
Examples of Natural Selection

Darwin's Finches are an example of natural selection in action. They are an excellent example of the way species' gene p..

Biological Energy
ATP & ADP – Biological Energy

ATP is the energy source that is typically used by an organism in its daily activities. The name is based on its structu..

DNA carries genes coding for proteins
Genetic Information and Protein Synthesis

Genes are expressed through the process of protein synthesis. This elaborate tutorial provides an in-depth review of the..

temperature - abiotic factor
Abiotic and Biotic Factors

This tutorial deals with the abiotic factors of the freshwater environment that determine what sort of life would be sui..

Related Articles...

No related articles found

See all Related Topics