Wavefronts Through Optical Devices

This simulation visualizes Huygens’ principle and Fermat’s least‑time principle by constructing wavelets that form moving wavefronts. Students can watch how the envelope of secondary wavelets creates the familiar ray paths as the wave encounters lenses, mirrors, sources, or obstacles.

Interactive step buttons let learners select the optical element, toggle the Huygens construction, display rays, and switch between a continuous wave and short pulses. A slider adjusts a key parameter such as object distance, letting students see how focal points shift and how image formation changes.

By comparing the real light field with the ray diagram, students develop a deeper understanding of the wave‑ray connection, focal length, image location, and the conditions for constructive interference in optical systems.