Lens Formula Confusion: Convex Lens, Cartesian Sign Conv.

AI Thread Summary
The discussion clarifies the Cartesian sign convention for convex lenses, stating that distances are measured from the optical center, with positive values for incident rays and above the principal axis. It explains that when an object is placed between 2f and f, the image forms between the pole and f on the opposite side. The lens equation, 1/f = 1/v - 1/u, is analyzed, revealing a confusion regarding the signs of u and v. The participant acknowledges a mistake in their calculations, highlighting the common nature of such errors in optics. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding sign conventions in lens formulas.
anigeo
Messages
83
Reaction score
0
The cartesian sign convention for a convex lens is follows:
1. All distances on the principal axis are measured from the optical center.
2. The distances measured in the direction of incident rays are positive and all the distances measured in the direction opposite to that of the incident rays are negative.
3. All distances measured above the principal axis are positive. Thus, height of an object and that of an erect image are positive and all distances measured below the principal axis are negative.

Then for a convex lens when the object is placed between 2f and f,the image is formed between pole and f on the other side.
The lens equation is 1/f=1/v-1/u.
In this case,
v,f>0 and u<0.
then 1/u=1/v-1/f=(f-v)/(vb)>0,.....BUT HOW CAN THIS BE TRUE as u<0.
 
Science news on Phys.org
draw the ray diagram and notice that v > f
therefore, f-v < 0
which comes as no surprise because u < 0

what's the problem?
 
Thanks Simon,i just made a small mistake.
 
Happen to the best of us ;)
 
Back
Top