Chromatic Aberration
This interactive simulator explores Chromatic Aberration in Optics & Light. Cauchy n(λ); thin-lens f(λ); paraxial rays R/G/B. Use the controls to change the scenario; watch the visualization and any graphs or readouts to connect the model with lectures, labs, and homework.
Who it's for: Best once you already know the basic definitions and want to build intuition. Typical context: Optics & Light.
Key terms
- chromatic
- aberration
- chromatic aberration
- optics
- light
Live graphs
How it works
A simple lens has focal length set by the refractive index. Because n(λ) varies with wavelength (dispersion), different colors focus at slightly different distances along the optical axis — longitudinal chromatic aberration. This page uses a Cauchy n(λ) and thin-lens scaling f ∝ 1/(n−1) with f fixed at green for calibration.
Key equations
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