Resolution

Nature of science:

Improved technology: The Rayleigh criterion is the limit of resolution. Continuing advancement in technology such as large diameter dishes or lenses or the use of smaller wavelength lasers pushes the limits of what we can resolve. (1.8)

• The size of a diffracting aperture
• The resolution of simple monochromatic two-source systems

Applications and skills:

• Solving problems involving the Rayleigh criterion for light emitted by two sources diffracted at a single slit
• Resolvance of diffraction gratings

Guidance:

• Proof of the diffraction grating resolvance equation is not required

Data booklet reference:

• Satellite use for commercial and political purposes is dictated by the resolution capabilities of the satellite

Theory of knowledge:

• The resolution limits set by Dawes and Rayleigh are capable of being surpassed by the construction of high quality telescopes. Are we capable of breaking other limits of scientific knowledge with our advancing technology?

Utilization:

• An optical or other reception system must be able to resolve the intended images. This has implications for satellite transmissions, radio astronomy and many other applications in physics and technology (see Physics option C)
• Storage media such as compact discs (and their variants) and CCD sensors rely on resolution limits to store and reproduce media accurately

Aims:

• Aim 3: this sub-topic helps bridge the gap between wave theory and real-life applications
• Aim 8: the need for communication between national communities via satellites raises the awareness of the social and economic implications of technology