Practice question
Question
A lens has a power of \( +4 \, \text{D} \). What is its focal length in centimeters?
Explanation
**Snell's law** n₁ sinθ₁ = n₂ sinθ₂ describes refraction at plane interface, n refractive index, θ angle with normal. When light goes from denser n=1.52 glass to rarer air n=1, sinθ₂ = (n₁/n₂) sinθ₁ > sinθ₁, bending away from normal, enabling total internal reflection beyond critical angle. Power: P = (1/f) (in meters). P = +4 D ⇒ 4 = (1/f) ⇒ f = (1/4) = 0.25 m = 25 cm . Substituting values gives 25 cm, which matches expected image position and magnification from mirror/lens formula 1/f = 1/v - 1/u (lens) or 1/f = 1/v + 1/u (mirror), confirming sign conventions and refraction principles.
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