Question

Fill in the blanks with the correct vocabulary word (s). \(\mathrm{A}(\mathrm{n})\) __________ telescope uses lenses to bend light.

Short answer

Refracting

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Telescope Types

There are mainly two types of telescopes: refracting and reflecting. A refracting telescope uses lenses to bend light, while a reflecting telescope uses mirrors.

Identifying Key Features

According to the exercise, the telescope mentioned uses lenses to bend light. This directly points to the type of telescope that employs lenses rather than mirrors.

Choosing the Correct Vocabulary Word

Since the telescope in question uses lenses to bend light, the vocabulary word we need is 'refracting'. A refracting telescope is known for using lenses to focus light.

Key concepts

Types of Telescopes

Telescopes are instruments that allow us to observe distant objects by collecting and magnifying light. There are two primary types of telescopes: 'refracting' and 'reflecting'. Each type has its own method of focusing light to allow us to view distant celestial bodies more clearly.
Refracting telescopes use lenses as their main component to bend light. This type of telescope was the earliest to be invented and is widely known for its simple design and ease of use. Reflecting telescopes, on the other hand, use mirrors to gather and focus light. They were developed as an improvement over refracting telescopes, eliminating some of the issues associated with lenses.
The choice between these types depends on several factors such as the intended use, budget, and personal preference. Both play an essential role in modern astronomy by providing different advantages and solving different kinds of observational problems.

Lenses and Mirrors in Astronomy

Lenses and mirrors are crucial in the field of astronomy as they determine how telescopes capture and focus light. Their function directly affects the clarity and brightness of the images astronomers obtain.
In refracting telescopes, lenses are used to bend, or 'refract', light rays and bring them to a focus. The primary lens, known as the objective lens, gathers light from distant objects and forms a small image at the focal point.

• The eyepiece lens then magnifies this image for viewing.
• They are preferred for their simplicity and low maintenance needs.

Reflecting telescopes utilize mirrors to reflect light, instead of lenses, to form an image. The primary mirror collects light and reflects it towards a secondary mirror or directly to the eyepiece.

• This setup corrects many distortions present in lens-based systems.
• Mirrors can be made much larger than lenses, capturing more light and allowing us to see fainter objects.

Both lenses and mirrors have revolutionized the way we observe space, providing scientists with clearer and more accurate observations.

Refracting vs Reflecting Telescopes

When comparing refracting and reflecting telescopes, we find that each has its pros and cons, making them suitable for different applications and users.
Refracting telescopes are characterized by their simplicity and ability to produce sharp, high-contrast images. They have high optical quality and are incredibly durable, making them ideal for beginners and educational purposes. However, they can suffer from chromatic aberration, where different colors of light do not converge at the same point, leading to color fringes around objects.
Reflecting telescopes, meanwhile, do not suffer from chromatic aberration because mirrors reflect all colors of light the same way. They are often used in professional astronomy due to their ability to build large primary mirrors, capturing more light and revealing distant galaxies and faint celestial phenomena. However, they require regular maintenance and collimation to keep the mirrors aligned.

• Choice depends on specific needs: simplicity and portability, or large-scale, powerful observation.
• Reflecting telescopes are typically more affordable for larger diameters.

Both types have been pivotal in expanding our understanding of the universe, each offering unique benefits depending on what you wish to explore in the night sky.