Optics
Rayleigh Criterion
The minimum angular separation at which two point sources can be resolved by a circular aperture.
Variables
\theta_{min}rad
Minimum resolvable angle
\lambdam
Wavelength
Dm
Aperture diameter
Your notes
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Common questions
What is the Rayleigh Criterion formula?
Rayleigh Criterion is written θₘᵢₙ = 1.22λ/D. The minimum angular separation at which two point sources can be resolved by a circular aperture. It belongs to Optics, under Resolution.
What are the units in θₘᵢₙ = 1.22λ/D?
In SI units, \theta_{min} is minimum resolvable angle, measured in rad; \lambda is wavelength, measured in m; D is aperture diameter, measured in m.