The geometrical optics approximation is a simplified approach used in optics to analyze the behavior of light when the size of obstacles, openings, or features in an optical system is much larger than the wavelength of the light being considered. This approximation holds when the characteristic dimensions of the elements in the system are significantly larger than the wavelength of the light.
In this approximation, light is treated as rays that travel in straight lines and undergo reflection, refraction, and other interactions with optical elements based on simple geometric principles. The wave nature of light, including phenomena like diffraction and interference, is disregarded because their effects become negligible compared to the size of the optical components.
The geometrical optics approximation is highly applicable in situations involving lenses, mirrors, and other optical devices where the dimensions are much larger than the wavelength of light. It simplifies the analysis of optical systems, allowing for easier prediction of image formation, ray tracing, and the behavior of light rays as they pass through lenses or reflect off mirrors.
