What happens to light intensity when using an optical chopper?

What happens to light intensity when using an optical chopper?

• A. It remains constant
• B. It is increased steadily
• C. It is modulated at regular intervals
• D. It is permanently reduced

Answer: (C)

Using an optical chopper, the light intensity is modulated at regular intervals. An optical chopper is a device designed to interrupt a beam of light in a periodic manner, effectively turning the light on and off at a specific frequency. This modulation creates an alternating pattern of light intensity, where the light is briefly allowed to pass and then blocked in a controlled, repeatable way. This periodic interruption alters the intensity of the light reaching the detector or the intended target, resulting in a waveform that can be analyzed for various characteristics, such as signal strength and frequency response. The modulation can be useful in experiments to study light properties, perform measurements, or enhance signal-to-noise ratios in optical systems. Thus, the correct answer reflects the fundamental operation principle of an optical chopper.

Using an optical chopper, the light intensity is modulated at regular intervals. An optical chopper is a device designed to interrupt a beam of light in a periodic manner, effectively turning the light on and off at a specific frequency. This modulation creates an alternating pattern of light intensity, where the light is briefly allowed to pass and then blocked in a controlled, repeatable way.

This periodic interruption alters the intensity of the light reaching the detector or the intended target, resulting in a waveform that can be analyzed for various characteristics, such as signal strength and frequency response. The modulation can be useful in experiments to study light properties, perform measurements, or enhance signal-to-noise ratios in optical systems. Thus, the correct answer reflects the fundamental operation principle of an optical chopper.