Periscope vs. Scope — What's the Difference?

A device allowing observation from a concealed position.

An instrument for viewing or observing distant objects.

An instrument with mirrors at both ends set at 45 degrees.

Can refer to the range or extent of something.

Used primarily in submarines for surface viewing.

Used in specific devices like microscopes or riflescopes.

Can be portable and used in tactical military operations.

In a more abstract sense, scope can imply opportunity or possibility.

Sometimes used metaphorically to denote extended vision or foresight.

Implies the capability or capacity to cover a field or subject.

A periscope is an instrument for observation over, around or through an object, obstacle or condition that prevents direct line-of-sight observation from an observer's current position.In its simplest form, it consists of an outer case with mirrors at each end set parallel to each other at a 45° angle. This form of periscope, with the addition of two simple lenses, served for observation purposes in the trenches during World War I. Military personnel also use periscopes in some gun turrets and in armoured vehicles.More complex periscopes using prisms or advanced fiber optics instead of mirrors and providing magnification operate on submarines and in various fields of science.

The range of one's perceptions, thoughts, or actions

An apparatus consisting of a tube attached to a set of mirrors or prisms, by which an observer (typically in a submerged submarine or behind a high obstacle) can see things that are otherwise out of sight.

The opportunity or possibility to function or be active

Any of various tubular optical instruments that conn reflecting elements, such as mirrors and prisms, to permit observation from a position displaced from a direct line of sight.

The extent of a given activity or subject that is involved, treated, or relevant

A form of viewing device that allows the viewer to see things at a different height level and usually with minimal visibility.

The length or sweep of a mooring cable.

(obsolete): A general or comprehensive view.

(Linguistics) The range over a part of a sentence or discourse that a quantifier has an effect on.

(intransitive) To rise and peer around, in the manner of a periscope.

A viewing instrument such as a periscope, microscope, or telescope.

A general or comprehensive view.

To examine or investigate, especially visually

An optical instrument of tubular shape containing an arrangement of lenses and mirrors (or prisms), allowing a person to observe a field of view otherwise obstructed, as beyond an obstructing object or (as in submarines) above the surface of the water.

To examine using an optical instrument such as a telescope or an endoscope

An optical instrument that provides a view of an otherwise obstructed field

The breadth, depth or reach of a subject; a domain.

(weapons) A device used in aiming a projectile, through which the person aiming looks at the intended target.

Opportunity; broad range; degree of freedom.

(programming) The region of program source code in which a given identifier is meaningful, or a given object can be accessed.

(logic) The shortest sub-wff of which a given instance of a logical connective is a part.

(linguistics) The region of an utterance to which some modifying element applies.

(slang) A periscope, telescope, microscope or oscilloscope.

Any medical procedure that ends in the suffix -scopy, such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, bronchoscopy, etc.

(obsolete) A bundle, as of twigs.

To perform a cursory investigation of; scope out.

To perform any medical procedure that ends in the suffix -scopy, such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, bronchoscopy, etc.

To define the scope of something.

(programming) To limit (an object or variable) to a certain region of program source code.

(informal) To examine under a microscope.

To observe a bird using a spotting scope.

That at which one aims; the thing or end to which the mind directs its view; that which is purposed to be reached or accomplished; hence, ultimate design, aim, or purpose; intention; drift; object.

Room or opportunity for free outlook or aim; space for action; amplitude of opportunity; free course or vent; liberty; range of view, intent, or action.

Extended area.

Length; extent; sweep; as, scope of cable.

To look at for the purpose of evaluation; usually with out; as, to scope out the area as a camping site.

An area in which something acts or operates or has power or control:

The state of the environment in which a situation exists;

A magnifier of images of distant objects

Electronic equipment that provides visual images of varying electrical quantities

No, scopes are used in various fields including astronomy, biology, and recreational activities like bird watching or shooting.

A periscope is used for viewing around obstacles while a telescope is used for viewing distant celestial objects.

A periscope works by using mirrors set at 45-degree angles to reflect light from one end to the other, allowing one to see over or around obstacles.

Yes, "scope" can also refer to the range or extent of something, such as the scope of a project or research.

A scope can refer to any optical device used for viewing, such as a microscope, telescope, or riflescope.

Common types of scopes include telescopes for astronomy, microscopes for science, and riflescopes for shooting.

Yes, scopes like microscopes and telescopes are fundamental in educational settings for teaching science and astronomy.

Yes, periscopes can be used by civilians for various purposes, including educational kits for children.

The key advantage is allowing observation without exposing the observer to enemy fire.

A periscope is used to observe from a protected or concealed position, commonly in military applications.

Periscopes are generally simple in design and easy to operate, using basic optical principles.

Yes, modern military vehicles and ships sometimes use digital periscopes that incorporate cameras and electronic displays.

Factors to consider include the specific use (e.g., bird watching, stargazing), magnification needs, and budget.

The quality of optics is crucial in scopes as it directly affects the clarity and effectiveness of viewing.

Scope technology has seen advancements in areas like digital imaging, enhanced magnification, and integration with electronic displays.