Practice question
Question
In a convex lens, why does the image transition from virtual to real as the object moves from inside to
outside the focal point?
Explanation
**Refractive index** n = c/v, water 1.33 means light 1.33 times slower than vacuum. Passing from water to air at 49°, n₁ sinθ₁ =1.33×sin49°≈1.33×0.755=1.004>1, so sinθ₂>1 impossible, total internal reflection occurs, no refraction. Inside the focal point, a convex lens diverges rays, forming a virtual image on the same side. Beyond the focal point, the lens converges rays to a point on the opposite side, forming a real image. This transition occurs as the object crosses the focal point, changing the ray behavior. Substituting values gives Due to change from divergence to convergence, which matches expected image position and magnification from mirror/lens formula 1/f =
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