ODS-7650 Optics 1: Foundations of Light and Lenses
This course introduces the student to the fundamentals of geometric and ophthalmic optics. The course begins with an introduction to the properties and behavior of light and lenses. We examine spherical and astigmatic refractive errors, and the components of the spectacle Rx. Students will learn about how light travels across space and changes as it interacts with different media. We focus on how optical systems produce images of objects through the use of single spherical refractive surfaces and thin lenses, both from a mathematical perspective, as well as visually through laboratory activities. Students will have an opportunity to neutralize lenses both by hand, and using a manual lensometer. These optical theories form the basis for skills and examination procedures used in clinical practice.