lencsehatást

The term "lencsehatást" (Hungarian for "lens effect") refers to a visual phenomenon observed when viewing light sources through a lens or a similarly shaped transparent object. It is most commonly associated with the appearance of multiple images or streaks emanating from a bright point of light. This effect is not an intrinsic property of the light source itself but rather a consequence of how light interacts with the refractive surfaces of the lens.

When light passes through a lens, it is bent or refracted. If the lens has imperfections, is not perfectly spherical, or has multiple surfaces, the light rays can be scattered and bent in various directions. This deviation can cause a single point of light to appear as several points, or to be elongated into streaks or rays. The specific pattern and intensity of the lencsehatást depend on the shape, material, and any irregularities of the lens.

This effect can be observed in everyday situations, such as looking at streetlights through a car windshield, especially if it has minor scratches or distortions. It is also a factor in optical instruments like telescopes and cameras, where lens quality is crucial for clear image formation. While sometimes considered an undesirable artifact, the lencsehatást can also be intentionally used in artistic photography or visual effects to create specific aesthetic outcomes. Understanding the lencsehatást is fundamental in optics and helps in the design and evaluation of optical systems.