Optics Bench
The Optics Bench Interactive provides a virtual optics bench for exploring the images formed by mirrors and lenses. The height of the object (either a candle, an arrow or a set of letters) can be easily adjusted. The focal length of the mirror or lens can also be changed. Learners can drag the object back and forth along the principal axis and observe how this position, size and orientation of the image changes. Values of object and image distances and heights are diplayed in the simulation and updated in real time.
Users are encouraged to open the Interactive and explore. For a more directed experience, The Physics Classroom has prepared two activities for use with this Interactive. Both activities are intended for use within a physics class as directed by a physics teacher.
Learners and Instructors may also be interested in viewing the accompanying
Notes page. Technical information, teaching suggestions, and related resources that complement this Interactive are provided on the Notes page. View
Notes.
Our Optics Bench simulation is now available with a Concept Checker that focuses on Concave Mirrors. Do the simulation. Then follow it up with the
Concept Checker.
The Physics Classroom would like to thank our friends at Nerd Island Studios for creating this incredible simulation and contributing it to our collection. You can find out more about Nerd Island Studios and view their other great products at their website (
http://www.nerdislandstudios.com).