Convex and Concave Lenses
In this section, we explore the two basic types of lenses—convex and concave. A lens is defined as a transparent optical medium with at least one curved refracting surface. Convex lenses, also known as converging lenses, are thicker in the center than at the edges. They cause parallel light rays to converge towards a focal point, hence often used in magnifying applications and photography.
Conversely, concave lenses, or diverging lenses, are thinner at the center and thicker at the edges, causing parallel rays to diverge. These lenses are commonly utilized in corrective eyewear for myopia.
Key terms introduced in this section include the principal axis, optical center, principal focus, focal length, and centre of curvature, which are essential in understanding how lenses function and how images are formed by them. The mathematical relationship governing lenses is encapsulated in the lens formula, and we learn about the significance of magnification, differentiating between real and virtual images based on lens type.