Aperture and Depth of Field
Recommended for grades 11–16.
Introduction
Lenses are used in a variety of everyday applications. In a camera, light from a source passes through a lens and an opening, called the aperture, and forms a real image that is recorded by film or a sensor. The size and shape of the aperture affects how much light strikes the film or sensor; they also have an effect on some characteristics of the image. In this experiment, you will investigate the role of the aperture in image formation.
Objectives
In this experiment, you will
- Predict and observe the effect of the size and shape of the aperture on the formation of a real image.
- Observe how the size of the aperture affects the depth of field.
- Observe how focal length and object distance affect the depth of field.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
No standards correlations for this experiment.
Experiment 18 from Advanced Physics with Vernier - Beyond Mechanics Lab Book
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.