What is the difference between cylindrical and spherical lenses?
In the realm of optics, understanding the nuances between different types of lenses is crucial for various applications. Two common types of optical lenses that are frequently encountered are cylindrical and spherical lenses. While both serve the fundamental purpose of refracting light, they possess distinct characteristics that make them suitable for specific tasks. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of cylindrical and spherical lenses, elucidating their disparities and applications. What are Cylindrical Lenses? Cylindrical lenses as the name suggests, have a curved surface that is part of a cylinder. Unlike spherical lenses, which have a uniform curvature across their entire surface, cylindrical lenses feature curvature only in one direction while remaining flat in the perpendicular direction. This unique design enables cylindrical lenses to focus light in one dimension while maintaining it in the other, making them indispensable for correcting ast