Optics - magnification of a converging lens

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the magnification of a converging lens with a dioptry value of D=3. The initial attempt incorrectly derived a magnification value of u=-4, which contradicts the expected behavior of real images. By applying the lens formula and the correct sign convention, the accurate magnification is determined to be u=4 when the object distance p is set at 0.25 meters. This highlights the importance of adhering to sign conventions in optics calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of lens formulas, specifically the thin lens equation.
  • Familiarity with the concept of dioptry in optics.
  • Knowledge of magnification and its sign conventions for real images.
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the thin lens equation in detail, focusing on its derivation and applications.
  • Learn about the implications of sign conventions in optics, particularly for real and virtual images.
  • Explore the concept of dioptry and its significance in lens design.
  • Investigate practical applications of converging lenses in optical devices.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone involved in optical engineering or lens design will benefit from this discussion.

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Optics -- magnification of a converging lens

Homework Statement


Dioptry of converging lens is $D=3$. What is magnification ##u##?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


##\frac{1}{f}=D## - dioptry.
\frac{1}{f}=\frac{1}{p}+\frac{1}{l}
u=\frac{l}{p}
l=up
D=\frac{l+p}{lp}=\frac{p(u+1)}{up^2}
Putting ##d=0.25m##, I get
0.25\cdot 3\cdot u=u+1
and ##u=-4##. Where I make a mistake?
 
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A real image will be inverted (i.e., will have a negative magnification). So, using the sign convention implied by $$\frac 1f= \frac 1p+\frac 1l $$where both ##l## and ##p## are positive for a real image, the magnification ought to be ##u=-l/p##.

Carrying that through gives you $$D=\frac { (u-1)}{up} $$and hence u=4 given D=3 and p=0.25, which I presume was the expected answer.
 

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