Uses of Convex Lens

Convex lens is a type of transparent lens which is thicker at the center and thinner at the edges. It cause the parallel rays of light to converge as they pass through it. It is also referred to as a converging lens. Convex lens is used in magnifying glass, telescopes, camera lenses, and curing hypermetropia. In this article, we will learn the functions of convex lenses in detail.

What are Uses of Convex Lens in Daily Life?

A convex lens, also known as a converging lens, is a type of optical lens that is thicker in the center and thinner at the edges. It is curved outward on both surfaces, resembling a bulging shape. Convex lenses are commonly used in various optical devices and systems due to their ability to converge light rays to a focal point. Convex lens is used for various applications in real life. The detailed application of convex lens in daily life is mentioned below:

Telescopes

A convex Lens is an important component of telescopes. The convex lens used in telescopes allows to focus and collect lights from distant objects. It allows the user to have a clear and enlarged view of the objects, which are very far away.

Magnifying Glasses

One of the most common and simple use of convex lens is in magnifying glasses. The convex lens used in magnifying glasses provides a magnified view of the object, which is smaller in size. The maximum amount of magnification is achieved when the object is located on the focal point.

Eyeglasses

Another common use of convex lens is in eyeglasses. Convex lenses are utilized in eyeglasses are used for those people who faces the problem of hypermetropia. With the use of convex lens in eyeglasses, the light rays reflected from the image get properly focused on the retina.

Camera Lenses

It is the most common use case of convex lens. The convex lens used in camera lenses allows the user to have clear and magnified view of the objects. It allows the user to control the level of magnification and adjust as per their need.

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Devices

Convex lenses are used to focus and magnify the images displayed on the screens of VR and AR devices. The lenses converge incoming light rays from the display screens to create a virtual image that appears larger and more immersive to the user

Projectors

Convex Lens are used in projectors to help in converging the light rays. The convex lens used in projectors to provide enlarged images on a screen. They are very important as they give focused and enlarged image of the object.

Spotlight and Flashlights

Convex lenses are used in spotlights and flashlights to focus and direct light beams onto specific areas or objects. The curvature of the convex lens helps concentrate the light rays, producing a brighter and more concentrated beam of light.

Real Life Experiments Using Convex Lens

Following are some real life experiment which can be performed using convex lens.

Experiment 1: Measurement of Focal length

Setup:

On a stable surface, carry and place a lens holder to hold the lens. After placing the lens holder, adjust the lens in the holder. Now, on one side of the lens place a source of light and on the other side place a screen.

Procedure:

• First of all, to get a clear and sharp image of the light source on the screen. To achieve this make adjustment in distances between the lens and the screen.
• Next, make sure that the image is fully clear and focused.
• Now, calculate the distance between(u) the lens and the source of light and the distance(v) between the lens and the screen.

Calculation:

calculate the focal length using the following formula

1/f = 1/v – 1/u

Result:

The obtained value is the measurement of focal length of the convex lens.

Experiment 2: Magnification Experiment

Setup:

On a stable surface, carry and place a lens holder to hold the lens. After placing the lens holder, adjust the lens in the holder. Now, on one side of the lens place a source of light and on the other side place a screen.

Procedure:

• Make a measurement of height(h) of the object and the measurement of height(h’) of the image formed.
• Now, to calculate the magnification apply the formula

m = h’/h

Result:

If the magnification value m > 1, then the image is magnified. If the magnification value m < 1, the image is smaller and not magnified.

Experiment 3: Lens Power Calculation

Setup

On a stable surface, carry and place a lens holder to hold the lens. After placing the lens holder, adjust the lens in the holder. Now, on one side of the lens place a source of light and on the other side place a screen.

Procedure:

• Make a measurement of focal length(f) of the lens and this calculation can be done using Focal Length experiment.
• Now, to calculate the power of lens apply the formula

P = 1/f

Result:

If the power of the lens is higher, then it have higher focusing ability. If the power of the lens is lower, then it have lower focusing ability.

FAQs on Uses of Convex Lens

What is a convex lens?

Convex lens is a type of transparent lens which is thicker at the center and thinner at the edges and it cause the parallel rays of light to converge as they pass through it.

What are the different types of convex lenses?

The different types of convex lenses are following:

• Biconvex Lens
• Plano-Convex Lens
• Convexo-Concave Lens

Convex lens are diverging or converging?

The convex lens are converging in nature.

Which lens is used in magnifying glasses?

The convex lens are used in magnifying glasses.

Which type of image is produced by convex lens?

The image produced by convex lens could be real or virtual. It depends on the position of the object where they are placed.