Difference between Working distance and object distance

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinctions between working distance and object distance in lens systems. Working distance is measured from the lens's front surface, while object distance is measured from the lens's hypothetical center. The conversation also touches on the differences between image distance and back focal length. For image enlargement by a factor of 6, calculations for focal length, object distance, and image distance are necessary, emphasizing that working distance and object distance are not equivalent in practical applications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of lens optics and terminology
  • Familiarity with the thin lens formula
  • Basic knowledge of image formation in optics
  • Concept of magnification in optical systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the thin lens formula and its applications
  • Learn about the calculations for focal length in lens systems
  • Explore the concepts of image distance and back focal length
  • Research practical applications of working distance in microscopy
USEFUL FOR

Optics students, lens designers, photographers, and anyone involved in optical engineering or microscopy who seeks to deepen their understanding of lens measurements and calculations.

Aymangh994
Messages
15
Reaction score
2
So I have a problem understanding the difference between working distance and the object distance of a lens.
For me it is also unclear what the difference between image distance and back focal length.
If I want to enlarge the image by 6. How can I calculate the focal length, object distance and image distance ?
Is the working distance the same as object distance ?
 
Science news on Phys.org
Typically only for a perfectly thin lens (which can be a useful approximation). The object distance is measured from the hypothetical lens center and the working distance from the actual front surface of the lens. In the real world dthay are not the same.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
11K