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MENTAL MODEL · M4758

Rayleigh Criterion

Rayleigh Criterion
Learn & MetacognitionHigh supportCognitive Science
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Defines the ultimate ability of an optical instrument to resolve two closely spaced points. Due to diffraction effects, if two points are too close, their diffraction patterns overlap and appear as a single point.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

The granularity limit of cognition. Limited by our senses or measurement tools (wavelength), many subtle differences in reality (such as two similar business models, two subtle emotions) appear as overlapping 'one point' to us. To distinguish them, we must upgrade our observation tools (shorten the wavelength).

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Anchor fast decisions

The Rayleigh criterion gives the minimum angular separation at which an optical system can resolve two points, approximately 1.22λ/D, which is the resolution criterion under the diffraction limit.

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angular_resolutionZH · Explicit
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