Kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope, pronounced kuh LY duh skohp, is a small tube in which you can see beautiful colors and designs. Most kaleidoscopes are from 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 centimeters) in diameter and about 10 inches (25 centimeters) long. Both ends are closed, but one end has a small peephole through which you can look into the kaleidoscope.

The kaleidoscope works on the principle of multiple reflection. Two mirrors, sometimes made of aluminum, go down the entire length of the tube and slant toward each other, usually at an angle of 45º or 60º. At the far end of the kaleidoscope are two disks, the one closer to the eyehole made of clear glass and the other of ground glass. Pieces of colored beads and glass are placed between the disks. The beads and glass are reflected in the mirrors. The ground glass throws the reflections in many directions, and patterns are formed. When the kaleidoscope is turned, the beads and glass shift, and the patterns change. Designers have used the kaleidoscope to find new patterns for rugs, wallpaper, and fabrics. Sir David Brewster, a Scottish scientist, invented the kaleidoscope. He patented it in 1817.

Contributor: R. Wayne Schmittberger, J.D., Editor in Chief, Games Magazine.

Kaleidoscope

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