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Writer's pictureEvan Toh

Where is the focal point of lens L1 and L2?


Answer: Option A


Refer to the diagram (below left) which many are familiar. When parallel rays of light which are parallel to the principal axis enter the lens, the rays bend (refraction), come closer and converge to a point on the principal axis called focal point (F). The distance from the optical centre (C) to the focal point (F) is the focal length (f).


But what if the parallel rays of light entering the lens are not parallel to the principal axis but at an angle as shown on the diagram (below right)?


As you can see, the rays refracted and converge to a point P which is along the focal plane (imaginary vertical line through F and is perpendicular to the principal axis). This is similar to L1 in the question. (Refer to the first section of the video simulation below to reinforce your concept)

How about L2 in the question?


Light is reversible so you can also treat the light rays entering from the right of the lens L2. The parallel rays of light in L2 are at an angle but there is no ray through the optical centre C.


Refer to the video below, as you can see, the parallel rays of light will likewise refract and converge to a point, which is along the focal plane too.



Hence the focal point of both lenses L1 and L2 is at F2. So the answer is Option A.

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