Physics
Physics
Problem
An object is placed 8 cm in front of a thin lens. The lens produces a virtual, upright image located 12 cm on the same side as the object. Identify whether the lens is converging or diverging.Intuitive explanation
The key is to use the lens equation and sign conventions to reveal what type of lens bends light this way. When an image appears on the same side as the object and is virtual (light rays don't actually converge there), the lens must be spreading light outward rather than focusing it. Plug the object distance and image distance into the lens equation with the correct signs—a negative focal length will tell you the lens is diverging.
Intuitive explanation
The key is to use the lens equation and sign conventions to reveal what type of lens bends light this way. When an image appears on the same side as the object and is virtual (light rays don't actually converge there), the lens must be spreading light outward rather than focusing it. Plug the object distance and image distance into the lens equation with the correct signs—a negative focal length will tell you the lens is diverging.