Converging/diverging mirrors/lenses: conceptual question

  • Thread starter Thread starter tensor0910
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Conceptual
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the conventions for determining the signs of image distance (di) and object distance (do) in optics, specifically regarding converging and diverging lenses. Real images and objects are assigned positive values, while virtual images and objects are assigned negative values. For converging lenses, the focal length is positive, whereas for diverging lenses, it is negative. This clear distinction is crucial for solving lens equations accurately.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic optics principles
  • Familiarity with lens equations, specifically 1/f = 1/di + 1/do
  • Knowledge of real vs. virtual images
  • Concept of focal length in lenses
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the sign conventions for lenses in detail
  • Practice problems involving the lens formula 1/f = 1/di + 1/do
  • Explore the differences between converging and diverging lenses
  • Learn about ray diagrams for both types of lenses
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone seeking to master the principles of lens behavior and image formation.

tensor0910
Gold Member
Messages
46
Reaction score
14

Homework Statement



Im having trouble knowing/remembering when my di and do should be positive or negative. Does anyone have any tips/advice for this?[/B]

Homework Equations



1/f = 1/di + 1/do, hi/ho = di/do[/B]

The Attempt at a Solution


No solution. Just a question.[/B]
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Real images and objects positive, virtual images and objects negative.
Converging lens focal length positive, diverging negative.
 

Similar threads

Graphically determining the focal length of a converging lens
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Converging lens solve for all variables given f, Hi, and Ho
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Calculating Image Height of Flower in Convex Mirror | Homework Question
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
How Is Object Distance Calculated in Mirror and Lens Equations?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
What is the power of the lens in diopters?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Compound Microscope: Calculating Image Location with Two Lenses
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
What focal length is needed for a 0.60x magnification with a diverging lens?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Finding Image Distance with a Converging Lens: Magnifying Glass Problem
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
9K
Light and Optics: Shoplifter's Distance and Height
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Convergent lenses and calculating image position
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K