Reducing spherical aberration

In summary, the question is asking for the radii of curvature for the two surfaces of a lens with a refractive index of 1.53 and a focal length of 50cm, in order to minimize spherical aberration when an object is placed 70cm away. The student attempted to use the third order theory and the plano-convex shape to find the radii, but was unable to do so without additional information. After discovering a missing piece of their notes, they were able to use the bending factor to find the desired radii.
  • #1
fantagero88
2
0

Homework Statement


- single lens
- f=50cm
- refractive index n=1.53
- if object placed 70cm, find the radii of curvature for the two surfaces of the lens which would minimise spehrical aberration

Homework Equations



what i got from my notes

refraction at a spherical surface

(n1/so+n2/si)=((n2-n1)/R)+h²[(n1/2so)(1/so+1/R)²+(n2/2si)(1/R-1/si)²]

this is after using the third order theory

The Attempt at a Solution



i tried to make another equation for the other side of the refractive surface and then added them together,
and also, tried to use r= infinity because i read that plano-convex can reduce SA.

but still i could get it on what kind of value that could show me when SA is minimised. and also, i couldn't get rid value for h, which the value is not given.

is minimising SA is to get the complete thins lens equation from the third order theory??

thank you
 
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  • #2
i found the answer..
damn, i lost one piece of my note.. no wonder i was lost.

so, what i did i just used bending factor to get the radii.
i'll try to post up the answer then i got back home
thanks
 
  • #3
for your time and attention.Dear student,

Thank you for sharing your attempt at a solution. When it comes to reducing spherical aberration, there are a few approaches that can be taken. One approach is to use a lens with a larger aperture, as this will reduce the amount of light that is bent at the edges of the lens, thereby reducing spherical aberration. Another approach is to use a lens with a smaller focal length, as this will also reduce the amount of light that is bent at the edges of the lens.

In your case, you have a single lens with a focal length of 50cm and a refractive index of 1.53. To find the radii of curvature for the two surfaces of the lens that would minimize spherical aberration, we can use the lensmaker's equation:

1/f = (n-1) * (1/R1 - 1/R2)

Where f is the focal length, n is the refractive index, and R1 and R2 are the radii of curvature for the two surfaces of the lens. In this case, we can rearrange the equation to solve for R1 and R2:

R1 = (f * (n-1)) / (n * (n+1))
R2 = (f * (n-1)) / (n * (n+1))

Plugging in the values for f=50cm and n=1.53, we get:

R1 = 20.3cm
R2 = -20.3cm

This means that the first surface of the lens should have a radius of curvature of 20.3cm and the second surface should have a radius of curvature of -20.3cm. Keep in mind that these values are for a lens with a spherical surface. If you are using a lens with a different shape, the radii of curvature may be different.

In conclusion, to minimize spherical aberration in your single lens system, you should use a lens with a focal length of 50cm and two surfaces with radii of curvature of 20.3cm and -20.3cm, respectively. I hope this helps. Good luck with your studies!

Best regards,

[Your name]
 

1. How does spherical aberration affect images?

Spherical aberration is a common optical phenomenon that causes blurring and distortion in images. It occurs when light rays passing through a lens do not converge at a single point, resulting in a loss of image sharpness and clarity.

2. What are the causes of spherical aberration?

There are a few different causes of spherical aberration, including the curvature of lenses, the refractive index of the lens material, and the angle at which light enters the lens. These factors can all contribute to the misalignment of light rays and the resulting distortion of images.

3. How can spherical aberration be reduced?

One way to reduce spherical aberration is by using aspheric lenses, which have a more complex shape that helps to correct for the distortion caused by traditional spherical lenses. Additionally, using multiple lenses in a system can help to cancel out the effects of spherical aberration.

4. Can spherical aberration be completely eliminated?

While it is difficult to completely eliminate spherical aberration, it can be significantly reduced through the use of advanced lens designs and coatings. However, some degree of spherical aberration may still be present in most optical systems.

5. How does spherical aberration impact the performance of scientific instruments?

Spherical aberration can significantly impact the performance of scientific instruments, particularly those that require high levels of precision and accuracy. In imaging systems, it can reduce the resolution and clarity of images, while in other systems, it can affect the accuracy and reliability of measurements and data.

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