Collimator

/ˈkɒl.ɪ.meɪ.tər/ noun

Definition

A device or lens that aligns light rays or particles into a parallel beam; a tool used to adjust or verify proper alignment in optical systems.

Etymology

From 'collimate' plus the suffix -or (indicating a device or agent that performs an action), following Latin and English patterns.

Kelly Says

A collimator in a microscope or laser system is like an invisible traffic controller for light—it ensures every photon travels in the exact same direction, which is surprisingly difficult to achieve!

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