A pinhole camera is a simple device that you can use to capture images without requiring a lens. You can use it to teach basic principles of light and optics to kids.
Principles of Light
Light travels in a straight line and this is known as rectilinear propagation of light. One can see application of rectilinear propagation of light in the following:
- Pin hole camera
- Formation of Shadows
- Eclipses
Here we take a look at the Pin hole camera.
Pinhole Camera Demonstration kit to show the principles of a Pinhole Camera
What is a Pinhole Camera?
Pinhole camera is a simple application of the rectilinear propagation of light.
A basic pinhole camera is made up of a container with a small hole on one side and a photosensitive surface on the opposite side.
The photosensitive surface can be tracing paper, wax paper, butter paper, film or photographic paper.
In this camera, light passing through the pinhole creates an inverted image of the luminous object (which is placed outside the camera) on the photosensitive surface.
The pinhole camera was invented in the eleventh century by an Arabic scientist to view the solar eclipse without directly looking towards the sun.
You can make a pinhole camera at home and make your kids understand the basic scientific principles of light.
How to Make a Pinhole Camera?
You can make a pinhole camera at home using a cardboard box (or something similar).
This box needs to be rectangular or cylindrical and will serve as the main body of the camera.Make a small hole near the canter of one of the faces of the box. Remove the opposite face of the box and attach a tracing paper or wax paper in its place. You may use a rubber band to secure it in place.
Your pinhole camera is now ready!
Check out digital cameras for kids.
If you place a lighted candle in front of the pin hole, an inverted picture of the candle can be seen on the tracing paper.
An inverted image is created because light from each end of the candle travels in a straight line creating an inverted image on the tracing paper.
Funtoyworld is a family-managed website with me (Ben), and my wife doing most of the work. We are proud parents of two wonderful kids and love reviewing toys. We have a firm but friendly “democratic parenting” style and offer several practical suggestions backed by extensive research. Our own experience with raising two children prompted us to share our knowledge. Read more.
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