How Does Lens Focal Length Affect Microscope Magnification and Field Diameter?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the relationship between lens focal length and microscope magnification, specifically using a microscope with an objective lens (L1) of 20mm focal length and 10x magnification. The conversation explores calculations for the distance between the object and objective lens, the diameter of the observation field, and overall magnification in the direct observation path. Key equations discussed include the lens formula and magnification formula, which are essential for determining these parameters in optical systems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of geometric optics principles
  • Familiarity with lens formulas and magnification calculations
  • Knowledge of microscope components, including objective and eyepiece lenses
  • Basic skills in algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the lens formula in detail, particularly for multiple lens systems
  • Explore the concept of angular versus linear magnification in optical systems
  • Learn about the impact of diaphragm size on field diameter in microscopy
  • Investigate the effects of different focal lengths on overall microscope performance
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students studying optics, educators teaching microscopy principles, and professionals in fields requiring precise optical measurements, such as biology and materials science.

Grufey
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Homework Statement


First, thanks in advace.

Let us consider a microscope where the objective L1 has f1=20mm and magnification 10x. In the image plane is located a diafragm M with diameter 19mm (see fig). The size of the CCD is 4,8mm (vertical) x 5,6mm (horizontal). 20mm before of the CCD camera a len L3 is introduced in order to obtain the best compatibility of the field in the both paths of the microscope. Assumins that the focal length of the eyepiece L2 is 25 mm, determine:

a) Distance Object-Objective
b) Diameter of the observation field
c) Overal magnification in the direct observation (eye) path
scheme optic system.png

Homework Equations


General geometric optics:
Magnification: m=-y'/y where y and y' are the height of the object and image respectively
Lens formula: 1/s+1/s'=1/f where s and s' are object and image distance respectively and f the focal length

It should not need more formula, I guess...

The Attempt at a Solution



My attempt of solution begins with the lens formula applied to the Len L1

\frac{1}{s}+\frac{1}{s'}=\frac{1}{f} then, multiplying by s', we get, m=\frac{s'}{s}=\frac{s'-f}{f}

Thus substituting m=10,f=20, we get s'=220 mm, now applying again, the lens formula, we get s=-22mm. The minus sign denotes, that the object is in the object space. Ok until here everything is undertood, isn't it?

My problen is the b) and c) part. I think I need more information about L2. How can I get the magnification and the diameter in the observation field?

On the magnification, I think it means size magnification, or it is angular magnification?

Thanks in adavance, any help will be useful
 
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(b)
My understanding is that they want to know the diameter of the field on the object table that can be observed through the diaphragm. Not so hard if you did the calculation for the magnification factor object plane - image plane.

(c)
L2 has a focal length of 25 mm. Optical power 40 diopter. If I can normally focus to 25 cm, its magnification is ... (however, one less if you want to look with an unaccommodated eye, i.e. with the ocular focused on the image plane)
For a microscope the total magnification is ...

Caveat: I'm no expert, but I wear glasses and do possesses a microscope. Gave it my best shot, but it's your exercise, so if you don't understand or don't agree then don't take my word for it :)

Re your last question: I would stick to linear magnification. But Wiki (on the same page here ) leans the other way:
By convention, for https://www.physicsforums.com/wiki/Magnifying_glass and optical https://www.physicsforums.com/wiki/Microscope , where the size of the object is a linear dimension and the apparent size is an angle, the magnification is the ratio between the apparent (angular) size as seen in the eyepiece and the angular size of the object when placed at the conventional closest distance of distinct vision: 25 cm from the eye.
 
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