Convex and Concave Lens
What is a convex lens?
Thicker at the center and thinner at its edges, a convex lens is an optical element that transparently operates by converging light rays to form real or virtual images that rely on the precise location of the object.
How does a Convex Lens work?
Converging at a focal point on the opposite side of the lens, refracted (bent) light rays are what make a convex lens work. This process of refraction is what causes the light rays to bend towards its optical axis, resulting in parallel light rays.
What are Characteristics of Image Formed by Convex Lens?
When a convex lens is involved, the position of the object plays a key role in determining whether the image formed is actual or virtual. In cases where the object is situated past the focal point, an actual image is created. However, if the object is positioned within the focal length, a virtual image is produced.
What is Focal Length of a Convex Lens?
A crucial parameter for determining a convex lens’s ability to converge light rays is the focal length, which is the distance from its optical center to focal point.
What is a Concave Lens?
A thin center and thick edges make up the concave lens, which is an optical element that is transparent. What it does is it diverges light rays, and regardless of the location of the object, it only creates virtual images.
How does a Concave Lens differ from a Convex Lens?
Causing parallel rays to diverge, a concave lens refracts light rays away from its optical axis. The virtual images are formed as a result of this divergence, which appears to extend the rays backward.
What is the Focal Point of a Concave Lens?
Unlike a convex lens, a concave lens doesn’t possess one focal point. The divergent rays appear to originate from a virtual focal point when they are extended backward.
Can a Concave Lens form Real Images?
The light ray’s divergent nature hinders the formation of a real focal point, meaning virtual images are only possible with concave lenses.
Difference between Concave and Convex Lens
Convex Lenses and Concave Lenses are the types of spherical lenses, which are optical devices that are transparent in nature. There are several differences between Convex and Concave Lenses which we will cover in this article in detail such as their distinct characteristics and uses.
Knowing the difference between Convex and Concave Lenses is critical in grasping their function in different optical systems such as binoculars, optical microscopes, telescopes, etc.
This article explores the difference between convex and concave lens in detail including their definition and key characteristics as well.
Table of Content
- Convex Lenses and Concave Lens
- What is Convex Lens?
- What is Concave Lens?
- Types of Concave Lens
- Difference Between Convex and Concave Lens
- Concave vs Convex Lens – Tabular Difference
- Application of Convex and Concave Lens
- Application of Convex Lens
- Application of Concave Lens