The discussion clarifies that the thickness of lenses has minimal impact on the convergence or divergence of light rays in a linear approximation. Convex lenses converge light rays, while concave lenses diverge them. The primary factor influencing optical power is the curvature of the lens surfaces. However, lens thickness becomes significant when considering dispersion effects, as the refractive index varies with wavelength, leading to chromatic aberrations.
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Leonard123 said:I understand that convex lenses cause light rays to converge while concave lenses cause light rays to diverge. But what is the relationship between the thickness of these lenses and the extent of the convergence/divergence of the light rays?