Covering half of lens with an opaque coating

In summary, the opaque coating reduces the intensity of the image formed by the lens, but the full image is still formed. The intensity is reduced more for the upper half of the object.
  • #1
Titan97
Gold Member
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Homework Statement


hat happens to the image of an object kept before a lens if the upper half of lens is covered by an opaque coating?

(The object is kept at a distance $1.25f$ before the lens. Half the object is above the principle axis. $f$ is the focal length of lens).

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I understand that the full image will be formed and only the intensity of the image is reduced. But is the intensity uniformly reduced? That is, will the upper and lower half of image have same intensity?
 
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  • #2
Yes. Draw a ray diagram of the image formation to see why
 
  • #3
@BvU answer given says that upper half has more intensity than lower half.
 
  • #4
But no explanation ?
I took the lens from my camera (used a piece of black cardboard instead of opaque coating :smile:) to try it out provisionally. Didn''t see it happen.

Did you draw the picture ? Is it perhaps some second order effect ?
 
  • #5
No explanation is given.
 
  • #6
So who's giving the answer and can you ask for clarification? Otherwise we don't learn anything from this ...
 
  • #7
Its from a book. Its only available in india. Maybe the answer key is wrong.
 
  • #8
A google search finds many discussions on this, e.g. "what happens when you cover half a lens".
 
  • #9
  • #10
What I can clearly make out
Is that
The image distance is f/5 from the /on the right side of the lens(assuming its convex)
The image is on the left side
Next comes the magnification of the upper part which is v/u
Assuming the lens is convex
We get hi/ho=-4 (only for the upper half of the object)
Now the lower half of the object
Which is below the principal axis shares the same "fate"
Getting an equal magnification
Now as far as the intensity of the images are concerned. ..
 
  • #11
The explanation I have is more qualitative
So if you want
Maybe I can explain it to you
@Titan97
 
  • #12
  • #13
Titan97 said:
@BvU answer given says that upper half has more intensity than lower half.
Draw a diagram, representing the lens with just a vertical line. Imagine your eye positioned at the top of the object, looking at the lower part of the lens. Now imagine doing the same from the bottom of the object. What do you notice?
 
Last edited:
  • #14
that's the analogy i was trying to think of
Thanks

UchihaClan13
 
  • #15
and furthermore when the rays are reflected from the lower half of the lens
Some rays may just skim off the refracting surface and as a result get refracted

As for the upper part of the lens is concerned, the reflected rays don't play a part
But some rays which do get refracted form the lower part
as a result more light rays form/constitute the upper half
and thus the upper half is brighterUchihaClan13
 

Related to Covering half of lens with an opaque coating

1. What is the purpose of covering half of a lens with an opaque coating?

The purpose of covering half of a lens with an opaque coating is to create a split image effect. This can be used in photography and other optical devices to create unique and artistic images.

2. How does covering half of a lens affect the image quality?

Covering half of a lens with an opaque coating can decrease the overall sharpness and clarity of the image. This is because the coating blocks a portion of the light entering the lens, resulting in a partially obstructed image.

3. Can covering half of a lens be used to correct vision problems?

No, covering half of a lens with an opaque coating is not a form of vision correction. It is a creative technique used for artistic purposes and does not have any impact on vision problems.

4. What types of lenses can be used with a half-opaque coating?

Half-opaque coatings can be applied to a variety of lenses, including camera lenses, eyeglasses, and telescopes. However, the specific type of coating and its application may vary depending on the lens material and design.

5. Are there any other benefits of using a half-opaque coating on a lens?

In addition to creating a split image effect, covering half of a lens with an opaque coating can also reduce glare and reflections in certain lighting conditions. It can also add a unique texture and feel to the overall image or view through the lens.

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