Chapter 9: Problem 34

Distinguish converging lenses from diverging lenses, and give examples of each type.

Short Answer

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Short Answer: Converging lenses, also known as convex lenses, focus incoming parallel light rays towards a single focal point, while diverging lenses, also known as concave lenses, spread these light rays apart. Converging lenses are thicker at their center, while diverging lenses are thinner in the center. Magnifying glasses and camera lenses are examples of converging lenses, while eyeglasses for nearsighted vision correction and projector lenses are examples of diverging lenses.

Step by step solution

1. Definition of Converging Lenses

Converging lenses, also known as positive or convex lenses, are lenses that converge incoming parallel light rays towards a single point, called the focal point. These lenses are thicker at the center than at the edges.

2. Definition of Diverging Lenses

Diverging lenses, also known as negative or concave lenses, are lenses that diverge incoming parallel light rays away from a single point. These lenses are thinner at the center than at the edges.

3. Differences Between Converging and Diverging Lenses

The main differences between converging and diverging lenses are their shapes and effects on parallel light rays. Converging lenses have a convex shape (curved outwards), while diverging lenses have a concave shape (curved inwards). Additionally, converging lenses focus light rays to a single point, whereas diverging lenses spread them apart.

4. Examples of Converging Lenses

Examples of converging lenses include: a) Magnifying glasses: They make objects appear larger and closer due to the converging of light rays. b) Camera lenses: These lenses focus the incoming light rays onto the camera sensor to capture a clear image. c) Eyeglasses for farsighted vision correction: Converging lenses are used to correct hyperopia (farsightedness) by converging the light rays to focus on the retina.

5. Examples of Diverging Lenses

Examples of diverging lenses include: a) Eyeglasses for nearsighted vision correction: Diverging lenses are used to correct myopia (nearsightedness) by spreading the light rays out so that they focus on the retina. b) Projector lenses: These lenses spread out the light beam from the projector, displaying images over a larger area. c) Peepholes in doors: The diverging lens inside a peephole creates a wide-angle view, allowing you to see a larger area outside the door from a single viewpoint.

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Distinguish converging lenses from diverging lenses, and give examples of each type.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

1. Definition of Converging Lenses

2. Definition of Diverging Lenses

3. Differences Between Converging and Diverging Lenses

4. Examples of Converging Lenses

5. Examples of Diverging Lenses

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