Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Weather
Optical phenomena observed and described by Sir Isaac Newton, 1704
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Optical phenomena observed and described by Sir Isaac Newton, 1704
Optical phenomena observed and described by Sir Isaac Newton, 1704. The formation of a rainbow by dispersion and total internal reflection (Fig 15) and the splitting and recombination of white light by prisms (Fig 16). From Opticks by Isaac Newton. (London, 1704)
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14864514
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Isaac Isaac Newton Newton Optics Oxford Science Archive Physics Prism Rainbow Sir Isaac Spectrum
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Abstract Art
> Rainbows
> Arts
> Minimalist artwork
> Monochrome artwork
> Fine art
> Arts
> Minimalist artwork
> Monochrome artwork
> Monochrome paintings
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Weather
> Historic
> Famous inventors and scientists
> Isaac Newton
> Science
> Scientists
> Sir Isaac Newton
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the groundbreaking work of Sir Isaac Newton in the field of optics. Taken from his renowned book "Opticks" published in London in 1704, this image depicts two significant optical phenomena observed and described by Newton. In Figure 15, we witness the formation of a rainbow through dispersion and total internal reflection. Newton's meticulous observations allowed him to unravel the mysteries behind this natural phenomenon, revealing how sunlight is refracted, reflected, and dispersed within water droplets to create the mesmerizing spectrum of colors that we admire after rainfall. Figure 16 illustrates another breakthrough discovery by Newton: the splitting and recombination of white light using prisms. By passing a beam of light through a prism, he demonstrated how it could be separated into its constituent colors - red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet - forming what is known as a spectrum. This groundbreaking experiment paved the way for our understanding of light as composed of different wavelengths. Newton's contributions to science revolutionized our comprehension of optics and laid down foundations for modern physics. His pioneering research continues to inspire scientists worldwide even today. This historic photograph serves as a testament to Sir Isaac Newton's brilliance as both an observer and describer of natural phenomena while showcasing his profound impact on scientific knowledge during Britain's illustrious eighteenth century.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.