Rankers Physics

Refraction by Spherical Surfaces: Practice Problem & Solution

When a biconvex lens of glass having refractive index 1.47 is dipped in a liquid, it acts as a plane sheet of glass. This implies that the liquid must have refractive index: (2012 Pre)
Equal to that of glass
Less then one
Greater than that of glass
Less then that of glass

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Refraction by Spherical Surfaces. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

A lens acts as a plane sheet of glass (meaning its focal length becomes infinite) only when it is immersed in a liquid having the same refractive index as the material of the lens. Therefore, the liquid must have a refractive index equal to that of the glass, which is 1.47.

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