optics

op·tics

noun plural but singular in construction \ˈäp-tiks\

Definition of OPTICS

: a science that deals with the genesis and propagation of light, the changes that it undergoes and produces, and other phenomena closely associated with it

First Known Use of OPTICS

1579

Other Physics Terms

amplitude, centrifugal, centripetal, convection, gradient, hysteresis, kinetic, lase, quantum

op·tics

noun plural but singular or plural in construction \ˈäp-tiks\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of OPTICS

1

: a science that deals with the genesis and propagation of light, the changes that it undergoes and produces, and other phenomena closely associated with it

2

: optical properties

optics

   (Concise Encyclopedia)

Science concerned with the production and propagation of light, the changes it undergoes and produces, and closely related phenomena. Physical optics deals with the nature and properties of light; geometric optics deals with the formation of images by mirrors, lenses, and other devices that use light. Optical data processing involves manipulation of the information content of an image formed by coherent (one-wavelength) optical systems. The study of optics has led to the development of devices such as eyeglasses and contact lenses, telescopes, microscopes, cameras, binoculars, lasers, and optical fibres (see fibre optics).