Question

Sometimes, objects that are very close to each other cannot be "resolved" - i.e. distinguished as different sources of light. In the assigned reading for this lecture, an equation ("Rayleigh's Criterion") was found that allows us to calculate when two objects may be resolved. Which of the following options describe correct physical properties or specific assumptions that were used to find this equation? (Choose all correct options. Unlimited, unpenalized attempts are allowed.)

Light from the sources passes through some circular aperture in an optical instrument.

When two objects are very close together, light passing in between them diffracts, and this diffraction pattern prevents a viewer from seeing both objects.

Light from the sources refracts through a lens, and if the location of the focal point prevents an image from being formed, then two sources cannot be distinguished.

Diffraction always prevents objects from being distinguished, so whenever there is diffraction it is impossible to resolve two separate sources of light.

Light from each source diffracts when passing through an aperture, and if the central maxima of their diffraction patterns overlap too much, then they can't be distinguished.

Answer 1

When two objects are very close together, light passing in between them diffracts, and this diffraction pattern prevents a viewer from seeing both objects.

Light from each source diffracts when passing through an aperture, and if the central maxima of their diffraction patterns overlap too much, then they can't be distinguished.