Achievement Task

The Astronomical Society of Canada has decided to fund the development of new optical devices as part of their continuing quest to image the known Universe. Interested parties must construct, test, and refine a prototype of an optical device (e.g., construct at least one of the following: telescope, microscope, binoculars, periscope). Once you have built your prototype device you will be required to present your device the ASC. As part of your presentation you will need to provide an analysis of the optical effects that are produced by technological device you have created.

Part A: Research

1. Describe the scientific model for light and how it applies to the operation of an optical device like a telescope.

2. What is the difference between a reflection and a refraction telescope? Draw a simple illustration of each and trace the path of light through the telescope.

3. How do scientists deal with the distortion of light as it passes through the atmosphere? What problems does this distortion cause when trying to locate a stellar body?

4. Describe ways in which science is working to improve both the ability of a telescope to collect light and its ability to magnify light into a clear image.

5. Not all telescopes collect and magnify visible light. What other forms of electromagnetic radiation can be viewed using a telescope? Why would we want to view these forms of electromagnetic radiation?

Part B: Testing and Inquiry

1. Your task is to design a working prototype of an optical device. Your team should choose one of the devices that were requested by ASC. Once you have made your choice please confirm that choice with a senior member of the ASC.

2. You may be able to request the use of lenses and mirrors from the ASC, but you must supply all other materials that you require. Research the device you have chosen carefully.

3. Remember all of these devices perform two basic functions. They must collect light and then magnify it for the eye to see.

Part C: Analyze and Reflect

1. Describe and explain, with the aid of light-ray diagrams, the characteristics and positions of the images formed by your prototype. What types of mirrors or lenses were used to construct your prototype? Explain why each type of mirror or lens was used in your device?

2. Analyze, in quantitative terms, the characteristics and positions of the images formed by the mirrors or lenses in your prototype.

3. Describe the effects of converging and diverging lenses or mirrors on light, and explain why each type was used in your specific optical devices.

Part D: Communicate

1. You will need to build and demonstrate your prototype to the ASC members. Your demonstration should include the following:

2. A brief description of the physics behind your design (explain how your prototype works using appropriate ray diagrams and the reason for the various lenses or mirrors). Explain how you collect the light and then focus the image on the retina of the eye.

3. Present your quantitative data on the images created by the lenses or mirrors in your prototype.