Question:

A convex lens of refractive index \[ \frac{3}{2} \] has a power of \[ 5\,D. \] If it is placed in a liquid of refractive index \(2\), the new power of the lens is

Show Hint

For a lens immersed in a medium, \[ P_{\text{medium}} = \frac{\left(\frac{n_l}{n_m}-1\right)} {(n_l-1)} \,P_{\text{air}}. \] If the medium has a higher refractive index than the lens, the power becomes negative and a convex lens behaves like a concave lens.
Updated On: Jul 29, 2026
  • \(2.5\,D\)
  • \(1.25\,D\)
  • \(-1.25\,D\)
  • \(-2.5\,D\)
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept: The power of a lens in a medium is given by \[ P= \left( \frac{n_l}{n_m}-1 \right) \left( \frac{1}{R_1}-\frac{1}{R_2} \right), \] where \[ n_l=\text{refractive index of lens}, \qquad n_m=\text{refractive index of medium}. \]

Step 1: Find the curvature factor of the lens. In air, \[ P_1 = (n_l-1) \left( \frac{1}{R_1}-\frac{1}{R_2} \right). \] Given, \[ P_1=5D, \qquad n_l=\frac32. \] Hence, \[ 5 = \left( \frac32-1 \right) \left( \frac{1}{R_1}-\frac{1}{R_2} \right). \] \[ 5 = \frac12 \left( \frac{1}{R_1}-\frac{1}{R_2} \right). \] Therefore, \[ \left( \frac{1}{R_1}-\frac{1}{R_2} \right) = 10. \]

Step 2: Calculate the new power in the liquid. Given, \[ n_m=2. \] Thus, \[ P_2 = \left( \frac{\frac32}{2}-1 \right) (10). \] \[ = \left( \frac34-1 \right) (10). \] \[ = \left( -\frac14 \right) (10). \] \[ =-2.5D. \]

Step 3: Interpret the result. The power becomes negative because the refractive index of the surrounding liquid is greater than that of the lens. Hence the convex lens behaves like a diverging lens. Therefore, \[ \boxed{P=-2.5D} \] \[ \boxed{\text{Answer = (D)}} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0
0

Top AP EAPCET Physics Questions

View More Questions