Definition

1. Noun:
   • A lens that causes parallel rays of light to converge at a focal point: A converging lens is a transparent optical device, typically made of glass or plastic, that is thicker in the center than at the edges. It bends (refracts) incoming parallel light rays inward so that they meet at a single point called the focus.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • A magnifying glass is a common example of a converging lens.
  • In the experiment, we used a converging lens to focus sunlight onto a piece of paper.
  • The camera's main optical element is a high-quality converging lens.

Advanced Usage

• "Positive lens": Another technical term for a converging lens, referring to its positive focal length.
  • For this telescope design, you will need a positive lens as the objective.

Variants and Related Words

• Convex lens: A more descriptive synonym, referring to the outward curve of the lens surfaces.

  • A double convex lens is a type of converging lens with both surfaces curved outward.

• Focus (n): The point where light rays converge after passing through the lens.

• Focal length (n): The distance from the center of the lens to its focus.

Synonyms

• Convex lens
• Positive lens

Antonyms

• Diverging lens: A lens that spreads parallel light rays apart.
• Concave lens: A lens that is thinner in the center than at the edges.

Noun

1. lens such that a beam of light passing through it is brought to a point or focus