Finding the radii of curvature for an achromatic lens

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the radii of curvature for an achromatic lens using the lens maker's equation. The simplified equations derived for red light are 1/f1 = 0.51/R1 and 1/f2 = 0.64/R2. To solve for the two variables, the user must incorporate data for blue light, as the curvatures of the lenses remain constant regardless of wavelength. The necessity of a second equation for blue light is emphasized to find a solution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the lens maker's equation
  • Knowledge of plano-concave and plano-convex lens types
  • Familiarity with optical wavelengths, specifically red and blue light
  • Basic algebra for solving simultaneous equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the lens maker's equation in detail
  • Learn how to derive equations for different wavelengths of light
  • Study the principles of achromatic lens design
  • Explore the effects of wavelength on lens curvature
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Optical engineers, physics students, and anyone involved in lens design and optical systems will benefit from this discussion.

youmei0426
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Homework Statement
An achromatic lens is to be made by combining plano-convex and plano-concave lenses made from two different types of glass, A and B. These have the following refractive indexes:

red light: A - 1.51 B - 1.64
blue light: A - 1.53 B - 1.68

What radii of curvature should be used to produce a combination equivalent to a converging lens with a focal length of 500mm?
Relevant Equations
1/f = 1/f_1 + 1/f_2
1/f = (n-1)(1/R_1+1/R_2)
R - curvature
n - refractive index
f - focal length
Since the two lenses are plano-concave and plano-convex, the lens maker equation can be simplified into containing only 1 R for each of the lens. Substituting the values for the red light, I got: 1/f1=0.51/R1 and 1/f2 = 0.64/R2. Adding these two equations and equating them to 1/(500*10-3).

However, this equation clearly has two variables. I'm sure we need to use the data for the blue light, but I am not sure how I can incorporate them into the equations? The curvatures of the lenses should not change as the wavelength changes...

Thanks in advance for the help!
 
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youmei0426 said:
this equation clearly has two variables
Yes, so you need another equation -- the one for blue light!
 

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