Optical physics and frame of reference....

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

In optical physics, the frame of reference for studying lenses and mirrors is crucial, particularly regarding the sign convention for real and virtual rays. The convention states that real rays are considered positive, while virtual rays are negative, which is essential for the accuracy of the lens formula 1/p + 1/q = 1/f. This equation applies equally to mirrors, highlighting the universality of the Cartesian sign convention in optics. The discussion also raises questions about the formal motivations behind these conventions and their implications in optical problems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Cartesian sign convention in optics
  • Familiarity with the lens formula 1/p + 1/q = 1/f
  • Basic knowledge of real and virtual rays in optical systems
  • Concepts of lenses and mirrors in geometric optics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation and applications of the lens formula 1/p + 1/q = 1/f
  • Study the Cartesian sign convention in detail, including its historical context
  • Explore the differences in optical behavior between lenses and mirrors
  • Investigate authoritative textbooks on optics for varied perspectives on frame of reference
USEFUL FOR

Students of optical physics, educators teaching geometric optics, and professionals in fields requiring precise optical calculations will benefit from this discussion.

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
 
Science news on Phys.org

Similar threads

Undergrad Image construction with concave and convex mirrors
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Undergrad Applications of Virtual objects
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
4K
Graduate When should I analyze optical problems using ray tracing vs. wavefront analysis?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Undergrad Image appears outside of q -- Lens Maker's Equation confusion
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
4K
Undergrad How Can I Build an Effective DIY Helmet-Mounted HUD?
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
6K
Undergrad Image if a mirror is placed at the focal distance of a biconvex lens
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Undergrad Apply Sign Conventions in Optics Problems Using Lens and Mirror Equations?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
11K
High School Am I understanding the concept of proper frame of reference?
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
3K
Undergrad Using simple lenses to image AFM Probes
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Undergrad Understanding magnification of concave mirrors for near-eye situation?
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K