Converging Lenses and Magnification

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the properties of converging lenses, specifically regarding image formation and magnification. Converging lenses produce real images that are inverted, leading to a negative magnification value calculated using the formula m = - (i / o). The confusion arises from the sign convention used in optics, where object distances are considered positive when the object is placed in front of the lens. Understanding this convention clarifies why the magnification can be positive despite the negative sign in the formula.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of optics and lens behavior
  • Familiarity with the sign conventions in optics
  • Knowledge of magnification formulas
  • Concept of real and virtual images in lens systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the sign conventions used in optics, particularly for lenses
  • Explore the derivation of the lens formula and magnification equations
  • Learn about the differences between real and virtual images in detail
  • Investigate applications of converging lenses in optical devices
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for the MCAT, educators teaching optics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of lens behavior and image formation.

mikezhou
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
I'm in the middle of studying for the MCAT, and just want to get all the concepts instead of memorizing how to solve problems. I'm having a hard time understanding converging lenses.

From what I understand, converging lenses create real images that are inverted. This property of inversion means that the magnification should be negative, where m = - (i / o). Since the image (i) is a positive number (real) and the object is a negative number (other side of lens), how is it possible that m is negative? i.e. - (positive/negative) = positive

What am I missing here?

My appreciation in advance!
 
Last edited:
Science news on Phys.org
mikezhou said:
Since the image (i) is a positive number (real) and the object is a negative number (other side of lens), how is it possible that m is negative?
The usual sign convention (there are several) treats object distances as positive if the object is in front of the lens (as usual).
 

Similar threads

Undergrad Question on Optical Systems and Lenses
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Undergrad Using simple lenses to image AFM Probes
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Graduate How to model converging illumination through object plane (in ZEMAX)
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
867
Undergrad Compound Microscope System: Magnification Power Explained
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Undergrad How to calculate focal length?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
High School Converging/diverging lense/mirrors, object in different places, image?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Undergrad Gravitational lensing: deriving magnification of lensed image
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Undergrad Collimating an extended source to infinity?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
21K
Undergrad Can a single biconvex lens provide fixed magnification?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Undergrad Focusing UV light from a 275nm LED down to a small spot
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K