Why 0.3m From Lens Is Optimal Focus?

In summary, according to the thin lens formula and ray diagrams, an object must be placed at the focus (0.3m away from the lens) in order for its image to coincide with its position. This is because the rays from a given point on the object will be parallel after passing through the lens and will then reflect off the mirror and reconverge to form the image.
  • #1
phantomvommand
272
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Homework Statement
A lens has a focal length of 0.3m. A plane mirror is placed 0.2m behind the lens. Where must an object be placed, for its image to coincide with its position?
Relevant Equations
Ray diagrams
thin lens formula
Apparently, it must be placed at the focus (0.3m away from the lens). Why is this so?
 
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  • #2
phantomvommand said:
Homework Statement:: A lens has a focal length of 0.3m. A plane mirror is placed 0.2m behind the lens. Where must an object be placed, for its image to coincide with its position?
Relevant Equations:: Ray diagrams
thin lens formula

Apparently, it must be placed at the focus (0.3m away from the lens). Why is this so?
If the object is at the focus, what can you say about the rays from a given point on the object after they have passed through the lens?
Follow their path on to the mirror and back through the lens.
 
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  • #3
haruspex said:
If the object is at the focus, what can you say about the rays from a given point on the object after they have passed through the lens?
Follow their path on to the mirror and back through the lens.
Won't the rays that emerge from the lens all be parallel to each other? But the rays hit the mirror at different points. How will the reflected paths then reconverge to form the image?
 
  • #4
haruspex said:
If the object is at the focus, what can you say about the rays from a given point on the object after they have passed through the lens?
Follow their path on to the mirror and back through the lens.
I see what you mean. Thank you very much
 

FAQ: Why 0.3m From Lens Is Optimal Focus?

Why is 0.3m from the lens considered the optimal focus?

The distance of 0.3m from the lens is considered the optimal focus because it is the point where the image formed by the lens is the sharpest and clearest. This distance is known as the focal length of the lens and is determined by the curvature and refractive index of the lens.

How does the distance from the lens affect the focus of an image?

The distance from the lens affects the focus of an image because as the distance changes, the angle at which light rays enter the lens also changes. This results in a change in the way the light is refracted and focused by the lens, ultimately affecting the clarity and sharpness of the image.

Is 0.3m from the lens always the optimal focus?

No, 0.3m from the lens is not always the optimal focus. The optimal focus depends on the specific lens being used and its focal length. Different lenses may have different optimal focus distances, and this can also vary depending on the distance of the object being photographed.

Can the optimal focus distance be adjusted for different lenses?

Yes, the optimal focus distance can be adjusted for different lenses. This is typically done by adjusting the distance between the lens and the image sensor or film in a camera. This allows for fine-tuning of the focus and ensures the best possible image quality for each lens.

How can I determine the optimal focus distance for a specific lens?

The optimal focus distance for a specific lens can be determined by consulting the lens specifications or by conducting tests and experiments with the lens. It is also important to consider factors such as the distance of the object being photographed and the desired depth of field when determining the optimal focus distance.

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