Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A concave lens is a diverging lens. It spreads out parallel rays of light.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. When a ray parallel to the principal axis strikes a concave lens, it is refracted away from the axis.
2. If we trace this refracted ray backward, it passes through the principal focus ($F$) on the same side as the object.
3. Therefore, to an observer on the other side, the light "appears to diverge" from the focus.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The ray appears to diverge from the first principal focus.