Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics (4th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0133942651
ISBN 13: 978-0-13394-265-1

Chapter 35 - Optical Instruments - Conceptual Questions - Page 1016: 8

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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