Shorter wavelengths of light, such as those in the blue and violet range, can contribute to a clearer image for several reasons:
Diffraction: When light passes through an aperture or encounters an obstacle, it tends to spread out or diffract. The extent of diffraction is inversely proportional to the wavelength of light. Shorter wavelengths undergo less diffraction compared to longer wavelengths. As a result, shorter wavelengths of light can produce a narrower beam and a sharper image.
Rayleigh criterion: The Rayleigh criterion is a principle in optics that defines the minimum angular separation required for two adjacent objects to be perceived as distinct and separate. According to this criterion, the resolving power of an optical system depends on the wavelength of light being used. Shorter wavelengths provide better resolution and can distinguish finer details in an image.
Aberrations: Optical systems, such as lenses, can introduce aberrations that degrade image quality. Chromatic aberration is one such type of aberration where different colors of light are focused at slightly different points, resulting in color fringing and reduced sharpness. Shorter wavelengths of light are less affected by chromatic aberration, leading to improved image quality and reduced color fringing.
Scattering: Scattering refers to the phenomenon where light gets scattered in various directions when it interacts with particles or irregularities in a medium. Shorter wavelengths of light are more likely to scatter in the forward direction, which helps to reduce haze and atmospheric interference. This can enhance image clarity, especially in situations with low visibility or when capturing distant objects.
It's worth noting that while shorter wavelengths can contribute to a clearer image, the overall image quality also depends on other factors such as the quality of the optical system, sensor technology, and image processing techniques used.