Answer to Question #121494 in Optics for Trevor Collins

Question

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Can I please get help with these assignment questions?

Answer 1

Geometric optics is when we treat light as a single beam (A ray) and study the properties. It deals with lenses, mirrors, phenomenon of total internal reflection, formation of rainbows, etc etc. In this case, the wavelike properties of light become insignificant as the objects we deal with are very huge as compared to the wavelength of light.

But, in physical optics, we consider the wave like properties of light and develop the more advanced concepts on the basis of Huygen's principle. We would deal with Young's double slit experiment and consequently with interference of light which is a characteristic of waves. We also deal with polarization and Diffraction which are also typical wavelike properties