P3.2.3 Thin converging lens

Describe the action of a thin converging lens on a parallel beam of light

• Thin converging lens refracts parallel beams of light to converge at a single point (focal point) on the opposite side of the lens

What is the principal focus/focal point, F in diagrams?

• The point where all the parallel light rays arriving converge

What is the focal length?

• Distance between the principal focus and the centre point of the mirror

What is the principal axis?

• The line which passes through the middle of the thin converging lens at a right angle to it

Draw and use ray diagrams for the formation of an image by a thin converging lens

Describe characteristics of an image based on position of an object

Describe the use of a single lens as a magnifying glass

• When objects are placed within focal length (closer to the lens than focal point), images are magnified (enlarged), virtual and upright

• Images appear the same side of the lens as the object