Ray Optics: Refraction and Lenses

Refraction and Lenses: Audio Guided Solution

Problem Set RL16, Question 2:

Harlem works at the Jewelry store in the mall. A client brings in a gem for evaluation. Harlem places it under a microscope that is equipped with a converging lens having a focal length of 12.7 cm.  The microscope produces a virtual image of the gem located 31.6 cm from the lens. Determine the magnification of the image.



 

Audio Guided Solution

Habits of an Effective Problem Solver

• Read the problem carefully and develop a mental picture of the physical situation. If necessary, sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help you visualize it.
• Identify the known and unknown quantities in an organized manner. Equate given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity - e.g., d_o = 24.2 cm; d_i= 16.8 cm; f = ???.
• Use physics formulas and conceptual reasoning to plot a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity.
• Identify the appropriate formula(s) to use.
• Perform substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.

Read About It!

Get more information on the topic of Refraction and Lenses at The Physics Classroom Tutorial.

• The Mathematics of Lenses