What is Optical

The term **"optical"** refers to **light** or **vision**—specifically, anything related to the **behavior, properties, and use of light** (especially visible light), or the **devices that manipulate light**.

### Common Meanings of "Optical":

#### 1. **In Physics and Technology:**

* **Optical fiber**: A technology that uses light to transmit data through thin glass or plastic strands.

* **Optical lens**: A curved piece of glass or plastic that bends light to focus or spread it.

* **Optical sensor**: A device that detects light or changes in light.

#### 2. **In Medicine:**

* **Optical nerve**: The nerve that transmits visual information from the eye to the brain.

* **Optical devices**: Glasses, contact lenses, or instruments used to improve or test vision.

#### 3. **In Data Storage:**

* **Optical disc**: CDs, DVDs, and Blu-rays—store data using a laser that reads or writes information on the disc's surface.

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### Examples:

* A microscope uses **optical lenses** to magnify small objects.

* **Optical illusions** trick the eye into seeing something that isn't there.

* **Optical zoom** in cameras uses lenses to magnify images without losing quality (unlike digital zoom).

Let me know if you're asking about **optical in a specific context**—like medical, tech, or photography—and I’ll tailor the explanation.