Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics (3rd Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321740904
ISBN 13: 978-0-32174-090-8

Chapter 24 - Optical Instruments - Conceptual Questions - Page 712: 6

Answer

We should use a lens with a small f-number.

Work Step by Step

We can write an expression for the width of the spot: $w = \frac{2.44~\lambda~f}{D}$ Note that $\frac{f}{D}$ is the f-number. Therefore, to minimize the width of the spot, we should minimize the f-number. We should use a lens with a small f-number.
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