Finding f and d in Lab Experiment

In summary, The equipment was set up as shown in the diagram. The length of the opening in the ray box was measured and recorded. The distance, x, of the tube from the screen was varied and recorded. The magnification, m, for each value of x was determined and recorded; this was obtained by focusing the image of the cross-wire formed on the screen and measuring the length of the image using the graph. At least 8 values of x and m were determined.
  • #1
lionely
576
2

Homework Statement



I have to find f and d
Here's the method of the lab
Method: The length of the opening in the ray box was measured and
recorded. The equipment was set up as shown in the diagram.
The distance, x, of the tube from the screen was varied and
recorded. The magnification, m, for each value of x was
determined and recorded; this was obtained by focusing
the image of the cross-wire formed on the screen and
measuring the length of the image using the graph
paper attached to the screen. At least 8 values of x
and m were determined. A graph of m against x
was plot and a best straight line was drawn through
the points. Theory suggested that

m = (x + d) - 1
f
By writing the equation above in the form y=mx + c,
the focal length of the lens and the position of the lens
from end A of the cardboard tube was determined.

153pjj5.jpg

Homework Equations


m = (x + d) - 1
f

The Attempt at a Solution



I plotted a graph of m against x gradient = m/x

so gradient would = 1/f right?

then i could solve for d after?
 
Last edited:
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  • #2


lionely said:

Homework Statement



The equipment was set up as shown in the diagram.

Hi lionely. Can you post the diagram?
 
  • #3


it's there now
 
  • #4


lionely said:

2. Homework Equations

m = (x + d) - 1
f
Just to make sure, is this the equation?

##m = \frac{x+d}{f} -1##

The Attempt at a Solution



I plotted a graph of m against x gradient = m/x

so gradient would = 1/f right?

then i could solve for d after?

Yes, the gradient (slope) would be 1/f. The y-intercept of your graph is related to d. So, you could use the y-intercept to find d.
 
  • #5


Okay thank you!
 
  • #6


I get a negative value when i try to work out d... I think something is wrong.
 
  • #7


Nevermind I made a mistake ...
 

1. What is the purpose of finding f and d in a lab experiment?

The purpose of finding f and d in a lab experiment is to determine the focal length (f) and the distance (d) between the object and the lens in order to understand the properties of the lens and how it affects the image formation.

2. How do you find the focal length (f) of a lens in a lab experiment?

To find the focal length of a lens in a lab experiment, you can use the formula 1/f = 1/u + 1/v, where u is the distance between the object and the lens and v is the distance between the lens and the image. By measuring the distances u and v and plugging them into the formula, you can calculate the focal length of the lens.

3. What is the significance of finding the distance (d) between the object and the lens?

The distance (d) between the object and the lens is important because it affects the magnification and the size of the image formed by the lens. By finding the distance, you can determine the position of the object relative to the lens and how it affects the image formed.

4. How do you measure the distances (u and v) in a lab experiment?

The distances (u and v) can be measured using a ruler or a measuring tape. Place the object at a known distance (u) from the lens and measure the distance (v) between the lens and the image formed. Make sure to measure from the center of the lens to the center of the object and image for accurate results.

5. What are some possible sources of error when finding f and d in a lab experiment?

Some possible sources of error when finding f and d in a lab experiment include parallax error when measuring distances, inaccuracies in the measurements, and distortions in the lens. It is important to take multiple measurements and calculate the average to reduce the impact of these errors.

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