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Chapter 6: Problem 5

What is the purpose of a telescope eyepiece? What aspect of the eyepiece determines the magnification of the image? In what circumstances would the eyepiece not be used?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The eyepiece of a telescope works to magnify the image formed by the telescope's primary lens or mirror. The magnification it provides is determined by its focal length, such that a shorter focal length results in greater magnification. In the case of astrophotography or when the telescope is connected to a digital camera or computer, the eyepiece is typically not used.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the function of an eyepiece

An eyepiece is an integral part of an optical system such as a telescope. Its primary purpose is to magnify the image formed by the telescope's primary lens or mirror. It does this by refracting (bending) the parallel light rays entering it so that they converge to form an enlarged virtual image which our eyes can comfortably view.
02

Factor determining magnification

The magnification of a telescope can be determined by taking the ratio of the focal length of the primary lens or mirror to the focal length of the eyepiece. The eyepiece's focal length largely determines the telescope's magnification. A shorter focal length of the eyepiece results in a larger magnification, while a longer focal length results in smaller magnification.
03

Circumstances in which eyepiece wouldn't be used

While the eyepiece is typically an essential component, there are situations where the eyepiece might not be in use. For instance, when the telescope is used for astrophotography or when it is connected to a digital camera or a computer. In these cases, the camera or computer takes the place of the human eye and the image is examined or processed without the need for an eyepiece.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Explain why combining the light from two or more optical telescopes can give dramatically improved angular resolution.

What kind of telescope would you use if you wanted to take a color photograph entirely free of chromatic aberration? Explain your answer.

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