For an astronomical telescope with objective diameter observing light of wavelength

PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics 2: Algebra-based · Waves Sound and Physical Optics · Waves Sound and Physical Optics

Problem

For an astronomical telescope with objective diameter

D

observing light of wavelength

\lambda

, the theoretical minimum angular separation

\theta

that can be resolved is (a)

\theta = \dfrac{\lambda}{D}

(b)

\theta = 0.61\,\dfrac{\lambda}{D}

(c)

\theta = 1.22\,\dfrac{\lambda}{D}

(d)

\theta = 1.22\,\dfrac{D}{\lambda}