Compute the focal length in air of a thin biconvex lens

[jlmac2001]

Compute the focal length in air of a thin biconvex lens (n=1.5) having radii of 20 and 40 cm. Locate and describe the image of an object 40cm from the lens.

my answer:

1/f = (n-1)(1/R1-1/R2)
1/f = (1.5-1)(1/20-1/40)
1/f = .5(.025)
f = 1/.0125 = 80cm (convering lens because f is positive)

Mt=-f/x0=-80/40=-2cm (Inverted image because Mt is negative)

Did I use the correct equations?

 

[arcnets]

Originally posted by jlmac2001
f = 1/.0125 = 80cm

Looks O.K. to me.

Mt=-f/x0=-80/40=-2cm

I should expect, if the object is only 40cm from the lens while the lense's focal length is 80cm, then the image should be upright and virtual, and magnified by a factor of 2.

 

[M98Ranger]

Yes, you used the correct equations to calculate the focal length and image distance for a thin biconvex lens. Your calculations are also correct, and your description of the image is accurate. Well done!