Magnifying glass how does it work

That is the virtual image. All the lens has done is to bend the lightbeams in a way that makes them appear to come from a "virtual", larger object. In the process it magnifies the object. As the lens bends the lightbeams, we cannot see the real object through the lens, only the magnified virtual image. Note that the above description is true only for a magnifying convex lens. For concave lenses, the beams would be bent in a different way, and the virtual image will appear smaller than the real object.

Sign up to join this community. The best answers are voted up and rise to the top. The image shows the same object twice, only at different distances. When the lowest and the highest rays of light reach the eye, they are at a certain angle to each other.

It is the size of this angle that determines how large we recognize an object. This is also the reason why objects look smaller to us with increasing distance. Now a convex lens is placed between the eye and the object.

The course of the light rays is now different. The object reflects the light again, but it is refracted as soon as it enters the lens and then again when it leaves it. All convex lenses have the ability to bundle all parallel rays to one point — the focal point.

This changes the course and then the angle of incidence of the rays. You might not have realized it, but magnifying glasses have greatly helped us understand and enjoy the world around us. Established in , Action Glass Co.

We have the experience and expertise to get the job done right the first time. A magnifying glass uses a convex lens because these lenses cause light rays to converge, or come together. A magnifying glass, in effect, tricks your eyes into seeing what isn't there. Light rays from the object enter the glass in parallel but are refracted by the lens so that they converge as they exit, and create a "virtual image" on the retina of your eye.

This image appears to be larger than the object itself because of simple geometry: Your eyes trace the light rays back in straight lines to the virtual image, which is farther from your eyes than the object is and thus appears bigger. The magnifying lens is a critical aspect of modern technology. Without it, you would not be able to take advantage of cameras, watch movies on a screen or use gadgets such as the night-vision goggles that are vital in certain military operations.

Going back to the early 17th century, Galileo assembled the first astronomical telescope, and discovered previously unknown features of Earth's moon and nearby planets, and also revealed that Jupiter has multiple moons of its own.

Formerly the editor of his running club's newsletter, he has been published in "Trail Runner Magazine" and "Men's Health.