Synopsys: Learn About Optics

Many people know that fiber optics are used in delivering the Internet, but are surprised to learn they are also used in astronomy. Scholars explore light, reflection, and fiber optics through hands-on activities. They discuss methods of...

Optical illusions are images that seem to trick our minds into seeing something different from what they actually are. But how do they work? This learning module walks us through a few common optical illusions and explains what these...

Students will investigate the properties of light waves. They will learn about the different types of electromagnetic waves and mechanical waves, and investigate the phenomena of reflection, refraction, interference, and diffraction.

Discover waves and optics by learning about the Doppler effect formula for observed frequency. [10:13]

Learn about waves and optics by discovering the doppler effect formula when source is moving away. [9:18]

Discover waves and optics by learning about refraction in water. [4:25]

When your life science class is learning about the eye and how it works, you can add this activity as a demonstration of how the retina holds an afterimage. After staring at a red, green, or blue bird shape, pupils glance at a cage and...

Learn about the diffraction of light using the wave model and Huygen's principle.

Get a new view of vision enhancement with this innovative little film. The history of man's use of lenses and the advancement of optic technology is perused with captivating graphic animation and easy-to-follow narration. Incorporate...

Students learn about the basic properties of light and how light interacts with objects. They are introduced to the additive and subtractive color systems, and the phenomena of refraction. Students further explore the differences between...