Spherical aberration in Biconvex and Plano Convex lenses

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Spherical aberration in biconvex and plano convex lenses is a critical topic for optical experiments. The discussion highlights the derivation of equations related to spherical aberration, emphasizing the application of Maxwell's equations and the Fresnel equations for understanding refraction. Key principles such as Snell's Law are also mentioned as foundational for geometrical optics. The conversation suggests that ray optics may provide a more accessible approach for beginners in optics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Maxwell's equations
  • Familiarity with Fresnel equations
  • Knowledge of Snell's Law
  • Basic concepts of ray optics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation of spherical aberration equations for biconvex and plano convex lenses
  • Study the application of Fresnel equations in optical systems
  • Explore advanced topics in geometrical optics
  • Learn about ray optics and its applications in lens design
USEFUL FOR

Optics students, experimental physicists, and engineers involved in lens design and optical system development will benefit from this discussion.

VVS2000
Messages
150
Reaction score
17
I wanted to know about spherical aberration in a biconvex and plano convex lens as I was planning an experiment with them.
I was reading about them and came upon the following passage.
I don't know whether the given equation is an empirical one or a derived equation.
Can anyone help me if you have any sources regarding aberration in plano convex and bi convex lenses or how to start with deriving such an equation?
 

Attachments

  • 1639987031473540774348258502045.jpg
    1639987031473540774348258502045.jpg
    51.5 KB · Views: 178
Science news on Phys.org
Everything concerning refraction can be derived from Maxwell's equations applying the right boundary conditions on the surfaces of the adjecent dielectrica (for everyday applications usually some glass lens with a given index of refraction, which is dependent on the wavelength of the light, in air, which can be treated as vacuum). You end up with the Fresnel equations.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fresnel_equations

This gives you the complete information, including the polarization of the light.

For the purpose of geometrical optics it's sufficient to know Snell's Law, which also follows from the wave-optics derivation a la Fresnel. It's the relation for the wave vectors in and out of the medium.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snell's_law
 
  • Like
  • Informative
Likes   Reactions: berkeman and sophiecentaur
vanhees71 said:
For the purpose of geometrical optics it's sufficient to know Snell's Law, which also follows from the wave-optics derivation a la Fresnel. It's the relation for the wave vectors in and out of the medium.
Ray optics is probably an easier first time around approach. It would produce an equivalent to the formula in the OP's attachment for the different lens type, I think.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: vanhees71

Similar threads

  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
5K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
7K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
38K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
5K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
8K