3. Prisms#

You can download the pdf for this page.

3.1. Ray optics#

Here’s a taste of what ray optics is.

Lens flare artifact.

Lens flare diagram.

3.2. Prisms#

Prism Type

Diagram

Dove

Penta

Retro

Anamorph

Wedge

3.2.1. Uses of prisms#

3.2.1.1. Dispersion#

\[ \theta = (n - 1) \phi \]

This is desperive because the refractive index is a function of wavelength, i.e. \(n(\lambda)\).

3.2.1.2. Beam bending#

beambending.png

This is better than a mirror because total internal reflection (TIR) is wavelength independent.

3.2.1.3. Retro-reflection#

retroreflection.png

3.2.1.4. Image rotation#

rotation.png

pentaprism.png

doveprism.png

3.2.1.5. Beam scanning#

beamscanning.png