Lensmaker's equation when the 2 mediums on both sides of the lens are different

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In summary, the conversation is about the lensmakers equation for a lens with different refractive indexes on each side. The focal distances have been calculated, but there is some inconsistency between the calculation for f1 and f2. The speaker has verified the expression for f2 and believes the textbook is correct. They also mention using Snell's law and the paraxial approximation for calculating the angle of the normal of the curved surface as a function of height.
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phantomvommand
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Hi, I chanced upon an interesting diagram lately, and was wondering what the lensmakers equation for such a lens would be. Attached below is the diagram. Basically, the refractive indexes of the 2 mediums surrounding each side of the lens are different.

They have also calculated the focal distances as shown below. However, I notice some inconsistency. f1 seems not to involve the refractive index of the opposite medium, while f2 does. Is the calculation of focal length correct, and what is the lensmakers equation when the mediums around the lens are different?

Screenshot 2021-02-15 at 12.56.24 PM.png
 
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I verified the expression for ## f_2 ##. To do this from first principles, (which I did), you have parallel rays incident from the left, and compute the refraction at the first surface for a height ## h ## using Snell's law with paraxial approximations. Next compute the refraction at the second surface, and finally compute the focal length, where the parallel rays converge on axis, independent of ## h##.
It would be a similar calculation for ## f_1 ##.
I think the textbook is correct.
Note: To compute the angle ## \phi ## of the normal of the curved surface as a function of ## h ##, you can use
## \frac{d \phi}{dh} \approx \frac{1}{R} ##, so that ## \phi=\frac{h}{R} ## in the paraxial ray aprroximation. (Traveling on a circle, ## \frac{d \phi}{ds}=\frac{1}{R} ##, where ## s ## is the arc length. Near the optic axis, ## h \approx s ##).
 
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1. What is Lensmaker's equation?

Lensmaker's equation is a formula that relates the focal length of a lens to the curvature of its surfaces and the refractive indices of the two media on either side of the lens. It is commonly used in optics to design and analyze lenses.

2. How does Lensmaker's equation change when the two mediums on both sides of the lens are different?

When the two mediums on either side of the lens are different, the refractive indices in the Lensmaker's equation will also be different. This will result in a change in the focal length of the lens, as well as other optical properties such as the magnification and image formation.

3. What is the significance of the refractive indices in Lensmaker's equation?

The refractive indices of the two media in Lensmaker's equation determine the amount of bending of light as it passes through the lens. A higher refractive index will result in a greater bending of light, while a lower refractive index will result in less bending. This is important in determining the focal length and other optical properties of the lens.

4. Can Lensmaker's equation be used for all types of lenses?

Yes, Lensmaker's equation can be used for all types of lenses, including convex, concave, and even complex lenses such as compound lenses. However, it is important to note that the equation may need to be modified for certain types of lenses, such as thick lenses or lenses with non-uniform curvature.

5. How is Lensmaker's equation derived?

Lensmaker's equation is derived from a combination of the laws of refraction and the thin lens equation. By considering the geometry and optical properties of a lens, it is possible to derive an equation that relates the focal length to the curvature and refractive indices of the lens. This equation has been extensively tested and verified through experiments and is widely used in the field of optics.

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