Physics – 3.2.3 Thin lenses | e-Consult
3.2.3 Thin lenses (1 questions)
A convex lens produces a virtual, upright, and magnified image due to the way it refracts light rays from an object placed closer to the lens than its focal length. Here's a breakdown:
Virtual Image: The refracted light rays do not actually converge; they appear to diverge from a point on the same side of the lens as the object. This apparent point is the location of the virtual image. Because the rays don't physically meet, the image is virtual.
Upright Image: The refraction of light rays preserves the vertical orientation of the object. The rays are bent in a way that maintains the object's upright position in the image.
Magnified Image: When the object is placed closer to the lens than the focal length, the apparent divergence of the refracted rays results in a larger image than the object itself. The closer the object is to the focal point (but still within the focal length), the larger the magnified image will be.
Diagram:
[Image missing: Magnifying Glass Diagram] Diagram of a convex lens forming a virtual, upright, and magnified image. The object is placed between the focal point and the principal focus. |
The diagram shows light rays originating from an object placed between the focal point (f) and the principal focus (F) of the convex lens. These rays are refracted and appear to diverge from a point on the same side of the lens as the object, forming a virtual, upright, and magnified image.