Light Science: Physics and the Visual Arts

Intended for students in the visual arts and for others with an interest in art, but with no prior knowledge of physics, this book presents the science behind what and how we see. The approach emphasises phenomena rather than mathematical theories and the joy of discovery rather than the drudgery of derivations. The text includes numerous problems, and suggestions for simple experiments, and also considers such questions as why the sky is blue, how mirrors and prisms affect the colour of light, how compact disks work, and what visual illusions can tell us about the nature of perception. It goes on to discuss such topics as the optics of the eye and camera, the different sources of light, photography and holography, colour in printing and painting, as well as computer imaging and processing.
From the Back Cover
Why is the sky blue? What is the nature of light? What can visual illusions tell us about the nature of perception?
In this fully revised edition of the classic textbook, Professors Rossing and Chiaverina present the science of light – that is, the science behind what and how we see. Their approach emphasizes phenomena rather than mathematical theories, and the joy of discovery rather than the drudgery of derivations – the opposite of "heavy science".
The text explores such topics as: the effects of mirrors and prisms on the color of light; the optics of the eye and camera; the physiology of the eye and the nature of color vision; the different kinds of sources of light; compact discs; photography and holography; symmetry in art and nature; color in printing and painting; and computer imaging and processing. It includes numerous problems, questions for discussion, and suggestions for simple experiments to support interactive learning.
This updated edition contains a wealth of new full-color artwork, and information on the latest developments in light source and display technologies. Requiring no prior knowledge of physics, it will appeal to students and any reader interested in the visual arts.