Gauss

Positioning and setting the properties of an optical component (mirror or lens) and of an object in the 3D scene, it is possible to observe various optical phenomena, such as the reflection and refraction of light rays and real or virtual images.

Application: Starting from the 7th grade of middle school’s science curriculum and, more specifically in the study of optics, from 11th grade. The indicated grade may vary according to the proposed curriculum.

Screenshots

Features

From a position and direction chosen, it is possible to generate rays of light that are reflected or refracted by the optical component

Different types of lenses (biconvex, plano-convex, plano-concave, biconcave) and mirrors (concave, convex or flat)

Change of physical properties of optical components, like radius of curvature, index of refraction and focal length

Real-time observation of the results arising from the changes made in the properties of the optical components

Visualization of rays extensions

The representation of the image generated can be seen in real time, even moving the 3D camera and object. This greatly facilitates the understanding of Gauss equation for lenses and spherical mirrors

Free navigation through the 3D scene and observation of the optical phenomenon from any viewpoint