Skip to main content

Physics module 17 · Put your knowledge to work

Optics Applications

Solve mirror, lens, instrument, resolution, and thin-film problems.

6 problem sets · Learn at your pace · Some resources require membership

From understanding to problem solving.

Your next step

Choose a problem set

Start with a familiar topic, then work towards more demanding problems.

6 of 6 sets

  1. 01Problem studio

    Curved Mirror Problems

    Focal length from curvature, the mirror equation, magnification, and real or virtual images.

    Open practice
  2. 02Problem studio

    Thin Lens Problems

    The thin-lens equation, lens power in dioptres, cameras, projectors, and lens combinations.

    Open practice
  3. 03Problem studio

    Optical Instrument Problems

    Magnifiers, telescopes, microscopes, and correcting lenses built from focal-length ratios.

    Open practice
  4. 04Problem studio

    Single Slit and Resolution Problems

    Diffraction minima, central-maximum width, and the Rayleigh resolution limit.

    Open practice
  5. 05Problem studio

    Thin-Film Interference Problems

    Optical path, phase flips, soap films, oil slicks, and anti-reflective coatings.

    Open practice
  6. 06Problem studio

    Optics Calculus Problems

    Longitudinal magnification, image speed, and the blow-up of image distance near the focal point.

    Open practice
Review the foundations 4 related lessons

Extra challenging questions

Take the ideas further with course-specific extension questions, supplied-data graphs and worked solutions.