The kaleidoscope is a unique object that can provide a special light show. The laws of nature are used in a certain way to achieve a beautiful end result. Rotating or moving the object changes the image for the viewer. The shapes that can be seen change, among other things. The beautiful effect of a kaleidoscope is created because of mirrors and other materials that are inside the tube. Some variants contain movable parts.
The kaleidoscope
- The origin of the kaleidoscope
- The material (at the end) of a kaleidoscope
- Patterns
The origin of the kaleidoscope
The kaleidoscope is originally from Scotland. The invention was made at the beginning of the 19th century by the scientist Sir David Brewster. In the past, the correct spelling for the object was ‘kaleidoscope’. A kaleidoscope is a tube that one can see through and that shows impressive patterns by means of reflections. The viewing hole is closed with transparent material so that the object remains protected and nothing can enter the tube. At the end there are all kinds of objects that ensure that a beautiful spectacle of light is created.
Various variants
Usually, kaleidoscopes differ from each other because it is difficult to achieve the exact same end result. As a result, only the copies that are mass-produced are exactly the same. This has the advantage that the manufacturers have their own unique product. A kaleidoscope can differ greatly in price depending on the material.
The material (at the end) of a kaleidoscope
Among other things, several beads and / or colored glassware are used to create a special light show. Some specimens have a chamber with glass that is filled with liquid containing various objects. The light first shines through this and then ends up in the eye of the viewer at a later time. Superglue is often used to hold a number of different objects in place.
In addition, a kaleidoscope often contains moving parts. These moving objects create an enormous variety of images that can be displayed. This keeps the use of a kaleidoscope interesting for the user, because a different image is always created.
Mirrors
The light beams are usually sent through about three mirrors. In some cases only two mirrors are used. These mirrors or prisms can be at an angle of, among other things, 30, 45, 60 and 90 degrees to each other. With this they form a triangle or V-shape. The light in the tube is reflected most when the angle of these mirrors is the smallest. The mirrors are located along the entire length of the tube and ultimately ensure that the light reaches the viewer’s eyes. The light has usually been reflected several times until it reaches the eye of the viewer, whereby the image has been created in a symmetrical manner.
light
It makes good use of the natural properties of light. (Natural) light can change direction by means of mirrors. The wavelength determines the color of the light. Because different materials reflect different wavelengths, a different light color can arise. This can benefit the end result and the amount of variations that can arise as a result.
Patterns
The patterns that are created can be compared to mandala creations or the shape of a rosette. These patterns are symmetrical and change structure and color when you move or rotate the tube. At the moment, there are other rays of light in the spotlight. Because the light travels a different path, other colors and patterns can be perceived. The patterns in combination with the various colors can be compared to stained glass creations.
Spirals
Sometimes the pattern gives a kind of tunnel or spiral-like effect, where the shapes and structures in the center are smaller than the structures in the area around it. By rotating the tube, the image has a hypnotic effect and resembles a rotating tunnel. These spirals can include lines and flower-like structures.