Aperture (physics)

Aperture refers to an opening that allows light or other forms of energy to pass through. In photography, it describes the size of the lens opening that controls how much light reaches the camera sensor, affecting brightness and depth of field in images. In telescopes and microscopes, aperture size influences the amount of light gathered, impacting clarity and detail. Generally, a larger aperture lets in more light, providing brighter images but shallower focus, while a smaller aperture allows for deeper focus but less light, leading to darker images. Thus, aperture is crucial for clarity and exposure in various optical devices.