Air Bubble in Water: Converging or Diverging Lens?

In summary, In this conversation, the speaker has concluded that the air bubble placed in water is converging (rather than diverging) lens. This is based on the assumption that the bubble is made of two similar plano convex lenses. Both lenses will have the same focal length, but applying convention (which states that one lens is positive and the other is negative) will result in an effective focal length of zero. The light will be deflected as it enters the bubble, but it is likely that the light will contact the other edge of the sphere at the same angle as it contacted the first edge.
  • #1
rktpro
62
0
I was tackling a problem that came to my mind whether air bubble placed in water is converging or diverging lens.
What I have concluded is that since bubble is sphere, we can assume it to be made of two similar plano convex lens. Now both of them will have same focal length but applying convention states that one would be positive and other would be negative. Thus the effective focal length would be zero and hence it wouldn't act like a lens but a glass slab.
What do you say?
 
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  • #2
Light will be deflected as it enters the bubble, will it necessarily contact the other edge of the sphere at the same angle as it contacted the first edge?
 
  • #3
rktpro said:
Now both of them will have same focal length but applying convention states that one would be positive and other would be negative. Thus the effective focal length would be zero and hence it wouldn't act like a lens but a glass slab.
What do you say?
This is not true. The two halves are both convergent (or divergent) so their powers have the same sign. A glass ball in air does not behave like a glass slab.
To find out the character of the air bubble (or half bubble) lens you just need to trace one or two rays.
 
  • #4
JHamm said:
Light will be deflected as it enters the bubble, will it necessarily contact the other edge of the sphere at the same angle as it contacted the first edge?

Probably not.
 
  • #5
nasu said:
This is not true. The two halves are both convergent (or divergent) so their powers have the same sign. A glass ball in air does not behave like a glass slab.
To find out the character of the air bubble (or half bubble) lens you just need to trace one or two rays.
How can both be of same focal length. If we apply convention, one would be positive and one negative. Because the focal points would be in two different directions.
If they are both convergent, it would mean that the image formed would be outside the bubble?


Please illustrate with a diagram, if possible.
 

1. What causes an air bubble to form in water?

An air bubble forms in water when air or gas becomes trapped in a liquid due to differences in pressure or temperature. For example, when a container of water is opened, the air above the water may escape and form bubbles as it rises to the surface.

2. How do air bubbles affect the properties of water?

Air bubbles in water can change the physical properties of the water, such as its density, viscosity, and surface tension. They can also impact the way light passes through the water, causing it to appear cloudy or frothy.

3. Can air bubbles in water be harmful?

In most cases, air bubbles in water are not harmful to humans. However, if the air is contaminated with pollutants or bacteria, it may pose a health risk if ingested. Additionally, in certain industrial processes or underwater environments, air bubbles can be hazardous to workers if they become trapped in their diving gear or breathing apparatus.

4. How do scientists study air bubbles in water?

Scientists use various methods to study air bubbles in water, including imaging techniques such as microscopy and sonar. They also use mathematical models to understand how air bubbles behave in different conditions and how they interact with other substances in water.

5. Can air bubbles in water have positive effects?

Air bubbles in water can have positive effects in certain situations. For example, in aquatic ecosystems, air bubbles help oxygenate the water, promoting the growth of aquatic plants and animals. In industrial processes, air bubbles can be used to remove impurities from water or to mix and agitate liquids. Additionally, air bubbles can create beautiful and unique visual effects in water, such as those seen in water fountains or lava lamps.

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