What is the Cartesian sign convention for microscope and telescope distances?

In summary, the Cartesian sign convention is used in the study of microscope and telescope optics. According to this convention, distances in the direction of the incident ray are negative, while distances along it are positive. All distances are measured from the pole of the lens or mirror. In the compound microscope, the eyepiece has a negative focal length and the objective has a positive focal length. In the microscope, the objective has a positive focal length and the eyepiece has a negative focal length. In the telescope, both the objective and the eyepiece have a positive focal length. This convention can be confusing, but it is important to understand in order to correctly interpret optical equations. The provided article goes into more detail about the sign convention,
  • #1
Suyash Singh

Homework Statement


Cartesian sign convetion for microscope,compound microscope and telescope.

Homework Equations


distances in the direction of incident ray are negative and thsoe along it are positive.
all distances are measured from pole of lens or mirror.

The Attempt at a Solution


1.FOR COMPOUND MICROSCOPE
eyepiece:
Fe is -
Ue is -
Ve is -
objective:
Fo is +
Vo is +
Uo is -
2.FOR MICROSCOPE
Vo is +
Uo is -
Fo is +
3.TELESCOPE
Objective:
Fo is +
Vo is +
Uo is -
eyepiece:
Fe is -
Ue is -
Ve is -
Am i correct?
i am so confused about this sign thing.
 
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1. What is the Cartesian sign convention?

The Cartesian sign convention is a set of rules used in optics and physics to determine the sign (+/-) of distances, object and image heights, and focal lengths when dealing with ray diagrams and equations. It follows the Cartesian coordinate system, where positive values are measured in the right and upward direction.

2. Why is the Cartesian sign convention important?

The Cartesian sign convention is important because it helps maintain consistency and accuracy in calculations and diagrams in optics and physics. It also helps in understanding the nature and behavior of light rays in various optical systems.

3. How is the Cartesian sign convention applied in ray diagrams?

In ray diagrams, the Cartesian sign convention is applied by choosing the direction of the incident ray as the positive direction. All distances and heights measured in the direction of the incident ray are considered positive, while those in the opposite direction are considered negative. This convention is also used to determine the location of the image formed by a lens or mirror.

4. What are the signs of distances, object and image heights, and focal lengths in the Cartesian sign convention?

In the Cartesian sign convention, distances are positive when measured in the direction of the incident ray and negative in the opposite direction. Object heights are positive when measured above the principal axis and negative when measured below. Image heights are positive when measured above the principal axis and negative when measured below. Focal lengths are positive for convex lenses and concave mirrors, and negative for concave lenses and convex mirrors.

5. Are there any exceptions to the Cartesian sign convention?

Yes, there are a few exceptions to the Cartesian sign convention. In certain cases, like when dealing with virtual images, the signs of distances and heights may not follow the convention. It is important to carefully consider the direction and location of the incident ray and object when determining the signs in such cases.

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