Lens: object distance vs. image distance?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between object distance (s) and image distance (s') for thin glass lenses of varying focal lengths (f). Participants are tasked with graphing s' versus s and explaining the physical implications of the graph's behavior.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the thin lens equation, questioning how changes in object distance affect image distance. There is exploration of the differences between converging and diverging lenses, particularly regarding their focal lengths and the nature of the images they produce. Some participants express confusion about the implications of the equation for different lens types and how to graph the relationships.

Discussion Status

Several participants are actively engaging with the problem, attempting to clarify their understanding of the lens equation and its application to both converging and diverging lenses. There is a recognition of differing outcomes based on lens type, and some guidance is offered on how to approach graphing the relationships.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the need to consider the signs of focal lengths and image distances for different lens types, as well as the implications of these signs on the graphing process. There is an acknowledgment of the complexity introduced by the nature of virtual versus real images.

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Homework Statement



An object is at distance s from a thin glass lens of focal length f. The lens is surrounded
by air. The image is at distance s' from the lens. Draw a graph of s' versus s. Explain
physically why the graph varies as it does.


Homework Equations



I think I am supposed to use the thin lens equation of 1/s+1/s'=1/f.


The Attempt at a Solution



For a fixed focal length, an increase in s causes the linearly proportional decrease in s'? As an object is moved farther away from the lens, the image also moves farther away.

I don't understand how this equation is independent from the case of a convex or concave lens.

Thanks for any help!
 
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Seadragon said:

Homework Statement



An object is at distance s from a thin glass lens of focal length f. The lens is surrounded
by air. The image is at distance s' from the lens. Draw a graph of s' versus s. Explain
physically why the graph varies as it does.


Homework Equations



I think I am supposed to use the thin lens equation of 1/s+1/s'=1/f.


The Attempt at a Solution



For a fixed focal length, an increase in s causes the linearly proportional decrease in s'? As an object is moved farther away from the lens, the image also moves farther away.

I don't understand how this equation is independent from the case of a convex or concave lens.

Thanks for any help!

What is the difference in f for a convex versus concave lens?

Can you show us your graph?
 
A diverging lens has a negative focal length and a virtual image. So f and s' are negative.

A converging lens has a positive focal length and a real image. So f and s' are positive.

1/s + 1/s' = 1/f.

Let's say s is the independent variable on my graph:

For a converging lens:

1/s + 1/s' = 1/f

1/s = 1/f - 1/s'

s = (1/f - 1/s')^-1

For a diverging lens:

1/s - 1/s' = -1/f

1/s = 1/s' - 1/f

s = (1/s'-1/f)^-1. I get a different answer for either converging or diverging =(. I think the question suggests that it shouldn't make a difference whether converging or diverging.

I have no idea how I would graph:

y = (1/x - c)^-1 Well, I guess if I say that 1/f=0 then the graph is y=x. But 1/f doesn't equal zero because if it did, there would be no lens.

Am I on the right track?
 
Seadragon said:
A diverging lens has a negative focal length and a virtual image. So f and s' are negative.

A converging lens has a positive focal length and a real image. So f and s' are positive.

1/s + 1/s' = 1/f.

Let's say s is the independent variable on my graph:

For a converging lens:

1/s + 1/s' = 1/f

1/s = 1/f - 1/s'

s = (1/f - 1/s')^-1

For a diverging lens:

1/s - 1/s' = -1/f

1/s = 1/s' - 1/f

s = (1/s'-1/f)^-1.


I get a different answer for either converging or diverging =(. I think the question suggests that it shouldn't make a difference whether converging or diverging.

I have no idea how I would graph:

y = (1/x - c)^-1


Well, I guess if I say that 1/f=0 then the graph is y=x. But 1/f doesn't equal zero because if it did, there would be no lens.

Am I on the right track?

The easiest way to start with the graph is to just graph a few points for each lens system. Start with the converging lens system, and start with the Object at infinity to the left. Where is the image? Now move the Object into 2*f distance to the left. Where is the Image now? And what happens when you move the Object inside 1*f to the left of the lens?

And do the same thing for the diverging lens. Do the graphs match the equations you've written?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lens_equation#Lensmaker.27s_equation

.
 

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