Lens ray diagrams show how light behaves when passing through...
Physics36 views·Updated Jun 13, 2026·2 pagesComprehensive Lens Ray Diagrams Explained
Maithy Smith@maithysmith
1
of 2
Convex Lens Ray Diagrams: Cases I-III
Convex lenses (the ones that bulge outward) create different image types depending on where you place the object. When working with these lenses, we use special reference points called focal points (F) and points at twice the focal length (2F).
Case I: When an object is placed far beyond 2F (essentially at infinity), the image forms between F and 2F on the opposite side. This image appears inverted (upside down), smaller than the original object, and is real (can be projected on a screen).
Case II: When an object is positioned exactly at 2F, the image also appears at 2F on the opposite side. The image is inverted, the same size as the object, and real.
Remember: Real images can be projected on a screen, while virtual images cannot. Think of real images as actually being formed by light rays converging!
Case III: When an object is between 2F and F, the image appears beyond 2F on the opposite side. This creates an inverted image that's larger than the object and real. This is the principle behind projectors that enlarge images on screens.
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of 2
Convex Lens Case IV and Concave Lens
Case IV: When an object is inside the focal point F (between F and the lens), something interesting happens. The image appears on the same side as the object, is upright, larger, and virtual. This is exactly how magnifying glasses work when you look through them!
With concave lenses (curved inward), there's only one case to learn. No matter where you place the object, the image always forms on the same side as the object, between the focal point and where the object is located.
Convex mirrors create images that appear between F and 2F on the light side. These images are inverted, smaller than the original object, and real. This is different from the mirrors you typically use every day.
Pro tip: To remember lens behavior, think: "Convex lenses converge light (bring it together) while concave lenses cause light to diverge (spread out)."
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Physics36 views·Updated Jun 13, 2026·2 pagesComprehensive Lens Ray Diagrams Explained
Maithy Smith@maithysmith
Lens ray diagrams show how light behaves when passing through different lenses, helping predict where images will appear. This visual tool is essential for understanding optics and how devices like cameras, eyeglasses, and telescopes work.
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of 2
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Convex Lens Ray Diagrams: Cases I-III
Convex lenses (the ones that bulge outward) create different image types depending on where you place the object. When working with these lenses, we use special reference points called focal points (F) and points at twice the focal length (2F).
Case I: When an object is placed far beyond 2F (essentially at infinity), the image forms between F and 2F on the opposite side. This image appears inverted (upside down), smaller than the original object, and is real (can be projected on a screen).
Case II: When an object is positioned exactly at 2F, the image also appears at 2F on the opposite side. The image is inverted, the same size as the object, and real.
Remember: Real images can be projected on a screen, while virtual images cannot. Think of real images as actually being formed by light rays converging!
Case III: When an object is between 2F and F, the image appears beyond 2F on the opposite side. This creates an inverted image that's larger than the object and real. This is the principle behind projectors that enlarge images on screens.
2
of 2Sign up to see the content. It's free!
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- Improve your grades
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Convex Lens Case IV and Concave Lens
Case IV: When an object is inside the focal point F (between F and the lens), something interesting happens. The image appears on the same side as the object, is upright, larger, and virtual. This is exactly how magnifying glasses work when you look through them!
With concave lenses (curved inward), there's only one case to learn. No matter where you place the object, the image always forms on the same side as the object, between the focal point and where the object is located.
Convex mirrors create images that appear between F and 2F on the light side. These images are inverted, smaller than the original object, and real. This is different from the mirrors you typically use every day.
Pro tip: To remember lens behavior, think: "Convex lenses converge light (bring it together) while concave lenses cause light to diverge (spread out)."
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
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You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Analyze the initial social and religious encounters between Europeans, Africans, and Indigenous peoples in the colonial Americas.
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