Light refracting through a plastic sphere

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around determining the image location of a light bulb placed near a plastic sphere, considering its refractive index and geometry. The participant is uncertain whether to apply the thin lens or thick lens equations for this scenario. They seek clarification on treating the sphere as a lens and whether its diameter should be considered as thickness. The conversation highlights the need for a clear definition of a thin lens to aid in solving the problem. Understanding the optical properties of the sphere is crucial for accurate image location calculations.
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Homework Statement


A small light bulb is placed 10.0 cm from the center of a plastic sphere of radius 1.0 cm
and refractive index 1.40. Where is the image of the bulb?

Homework Equations


1) Thin lens equation
2) Thick lens equation


The Attempt at a Solution


I realize that I'm going to have to treat this object as a lens, but I'm not totally sure about whether to use the thin lens formula or not. Would I treat this object as a "thick" lens and use its diameter as its thickness? Or is the spherical nature of the object going to require another equation? Thanks in advance.
 
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