Physics of Lenses

Flashcards about lenses in physics.

Real Image

Upside-down compared to the object.

Real Image

Can be focused on a screen.

Focal Length

The distance between the center of the lens and its focal point.

Converging Lens

A lens thicker in the middle that causes parallel rays to meet at the focal point.

Converging Lens

Forms either a real or a virtual image.

Diverging Lens

A lens thinner in the middle, causing parallel rays to bend away from the focal point.

Diverging Lens

Always forms a virtual image.

Ray Diagrams

Used to determine the size and location of an image.

Image Distance

Measured along the principal axis from the center of the lens to the location of the image.

Object Distance

Measured along the principal axis from the center of the lens to the location of the object.

Object Height

Measured from the principal axis to the top of the object.

Image Height

Measured from the principal axis to the top of the image.