Focal Length of Eye Homework: C, F Calcs & Myopia/Hyperopia

In summary, the focal length of a person's eye with normal vision looking at a far away object is approximately 2.5 cm. Later in life, if the focal length changes to between 2.1 cm and 2.3 cm, the person will suffer from myopia or hyperopia depending on the distance at which they can see objects clearly. To correct this problem, a convex or concave lens may be required, depending on the distance at which the object can be seen clearly. For a healthy eye, the object should be at a distance of 25 cm to be seen distinctly.
  • #1
ahrog
46
0

Homework Statement


The diagram shows the eye of a person with normal vision looking at an object that is very far away.
a) Determine the focal length of this persons eye.
b) Later in this person's life, the focal length will change to between 2.1 cm and 2.3 cm. Will this person suffer from myopia or hyperopia? Explain your answer.
c) Will this person require a convex or concave lens to correct this problem?

Homework Equations


Center of curvature= 1/2 diameter
Focal length= 1/2center of curvature


The Attempt at a Solution


a) C=1/2D
=1/2(2.5cm)
=1.25cm

F=1/2C
=1/2 (1.25)
=0.625

It doesn't make sense though, that focal length seems too small/odd. It says in the question that it changes to between 2.1 and 2.3, so my answer seems wayyyyy off...http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/9751/eyecopyw.jpg
 
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  • #2
Focal length= 1/2center of curvature
This is true for mirrors, not for lens.
In the above problem f = 2.5 cm.
 
  • #3
Focal Length of 2.5? Wow, that seems...too simple?
 
  • #4
When a parallel beam of light falls on a lens , it forms an image at focal point.
 
  • #5
Thanks. Another question though. How would you find the distance in which an object can be seen clearly from by just using the number 2.5 (and possible 2.1 and 2.3)?
 
  • #6
Using f as 2.5 cm and di as 2.1 and 2.3, find do. If do is lass than 25 cm,convex lens to be used. And if it is more than 25 cm concave lens to be used. For a healthy eye the object should be at 25 cm to see distinctly.
 

1. What is focal length of the eye?

The focal length of the eye is the distance between the lens of the eye and the retina when the eye is focused on an object. It is an important measurement in understanding how the eye focuses light and creates clear images.

2. How is the focal length of the eye calculated?

The focal length of the eye can be calculated by dividing the refractive power of the eye (in diopters) by the difference between the refractive index of the cornea and the aqueous humor. This calculation takes into account the shape and curvature of the eye's lens.

3. What is the difference between myopia and hyperopia?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a condition where the focal length of the eye is too short, causing distant objects to appear blurry. Hyperopia, also known as farsightedness, is a condition where the focal length of the eye is too long, causing nearby objects to appear blurry.

4. How does the focal length of the eye affect vision?

The focal length of the eye is directly related to how well an individual can see objects at different distances. A shorter focal length can cause nearsightedness, while a longer focal length can cause farsightedness. In both cases, the eye's ability to focus light onto the retina is affected, resulting in blurry vision.

5. Can the focal length of the eye be changed?

The focal length of the eye can be changed through the use of corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses, which alter the way light enters the eye and is focused on the retina. Refractive surgeries, such as LASIK, can also change the focal length of the eye by reshaping the cornea. However, the natural focal length of the eye is determined by its physical structure and cannot be changed without external intervention.

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