Title
The optics of life [electronic resource] : a biologist's guide to light in nature / Sönke Johnsen.
ISBN
9781400840663 (electronic bk.)
140084066X (electronic bk.)
0691139903
9780691139906
Publication Details
Princeton, N.J. : Princeton University Press, 2011.
Language
English
Description
1 online resource (x, 336 p., [8] p. of plates) : ill. (some col.)
Item Number
9786613439741
Call Number
QH515 .J64 2012eb
Dewey Decimal Classification
571.455
Summary
"Optics--a field of physics focusing on the study of light--is also central to many areas of biology, including vision, ecology, botany, animal behavior, neurobiology, and molecular biology. The Optics of Life introduces the fundamentals of optics to biologists and nonphysicists, giving them the tools they need to successfully incorporate optical measurements and principles into their research. Sönke Johnsen starts with the basics, describing the properties of light and the units and geometry of measurement. He then explores how light is created and propagates and how it interacts with matter, covering topics such as absorption, scattering, fluorescence, and polarization. Johnsen also provides a tutorial on how to measure light as well as an informative discussion of quantum mechanics. The Optics of Life features a host of examples drawn from nature and everyday life, and several appendixes that offer further practical guidance for researchers. This concise book uses a minimum of equations and jargon, explaining the basic physics of light in a succinct and lively manner. It is the essential primer for working biologists and for anyone seeking an accessible introduction to optics"--Provided by publisher.
Bibliography, etc. Note
Includes bibliographical references and index.
Access Note
Access limited to authorized users.
Source of Description
Description based on print version record.
Units and geometry
Emission
Absorption
Scattering
Scattering with interference
Fluorescence
Polarization
Measuring light
What is light, really?
Appendix A. Converting spectral irradiance to lux
Appendix B. Calculating the absorbance spectrum of a visual pigment
Appendix C. Refractive indices of common subtances
Appendix D. Optical properties of very clear water
Appendix E. Optical properties of natural waters
Appendix F. Useful formulas
Appendix G. Equipment and software suppliers.
