Concave Lens vs. Convex Lens: What's the Difference?
Optical lenses play a crucial role in various fields, from photography to ophthalmology. They manipulate the path of light, allowing us to focus images and correct vision. Among the diverse types of lenses, two primary categories stand out: concave and convex lenses. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of these lenses, elucidating their differences and applications. Definition and Structure Concave Lens A concave lens, also known as a diverging lens, possesses a curved surface that bulges inward. This curvature causes light rays passing through it to diverge or spread out. The center of a concave lens is thinner than the edges, giving it a distinctive indented appearance. Convex Lens Conversely, a convex lens, termed a converging lens, features a curved surface that bulges outward. Light rays passing through this lens converge or focus to a point on the opposite side. The center of a convex lens is thicker than the edges, resulting in a rounded, protruding