IGNOU PHE 9 2026 - Discuss Rayleigh's criterion for resolving power of an o

Question

Discuss Rayleigh's criterion for resolving power of an optical instrument. Obtain an expression for resolving power of a microscope.

28 Jan 2026

Answer :

Word Count : 497

Rayleigh's criterion is a fundamental principle in optics that defines the limit at which an optical instrument, such as a telescope or microscope, can distinguish two closely spaced objects as separate. According to Rayleigh, two point sources are said to be just resolvable when the principal diffraction maximum of one image coincides with the first minimum of the diffraction pattern of the other. In simpler terms, it sets a criterion based on diffraction that determines the smallest angular separation at which two points can still be distinguished clearly. The origin of this criterion lies in the wave nature of light. When light passes through

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