Optical physics and frame of reference....

AI Thread Summary
When studying lenses and mirrors in optical physics, it is essential to choose a frame of reference that distinguishes between real and virtual rays, typically assigning positive values to real rays and negative values to virtual rays. The equation 1/p + 1/q = 1/f is valid under this convention, which raises questions about its applicability to mirrors and the underlying principles that govern optics. The discussion highlights the need for a formal motivation for these conventions, similar to those used in dynamics. Additionally, the conversation references authoritative textbooks that may present different approaches to these conventions. Understanding the Cartesian sign convention is crucial for accurate problem-solving in optics.
physics user1
What kind of frame of reference do I have to choose when I'm studiyng lens and mirrors?

As far as I know you consider positive the direction where the rays are real and negative the one where the rays are virtual, is that always true?

Why can't we study a problem of optics choosing a frame of reference as we are supposed to do when we are studiyng a problem of dynamics?

Is there a more formal motivation?

As far as I know is because the equation 1/p + 1/q = 1/f is correct only when we are considering negative the virtual rays and positive the real ones, the same for mirrors.

Just another thing, why is that equation correct also for mirrors? I know the demonstration but is there something Inew the nature that makes this special
 
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