Magnifying Glass and its Characteristics

Introduction:
A magnifying glass is a simple optical instrument that is commonly used to enlarge the size of objects for better visibility. It consists of a convex lens mounted in a frame with a handle. When the lens is held close to an object, it creates a magnified virtual image that appears larger and clearer to the viewer.

The Lens:
The lens used in a magnifying glass is a convex lens. A convex lens is a type of lens that is thicker in the middle and thinner at the edges. It bulges outward, resembling a magnifying glass. Convex lenses are also known as converging lenses because they converge or bring together the light rays that pass through them.

Convex Lens Properties:
A convex lens has several properties that make it suitable for use in a magnifying glass:

1. Converging Light Rays: When parallel light rays enter a convex lens, they converge towards a point called the focal point. This property allows the lens to focus light and create a magnified image.

2. Enlarged Virtual Image: The image formed by a convex lens is virtual, meaning it cannot be projected onto a screen. However, the image appears enlarged and is seen through the lens. This virtual image is what allows us to see objects more clearly when using a magnifying glass.

3. Positive Power: Convex lenses have a positive refractive power. This means they can bend light rays inward and bring them closer together. The greater the curvature of the lens, the greater the magnification achieved.

Magnifying Glass Function:
When a magnifying glass is brought close to an object, it allows us to see the object more clearly due to the properties of the convex lens:

1. Magnification: The convex lens in a magnifying glass magnifies the size of the object being viewed. This is achieved by bending the light rays that pass through it and creating a larger virtual image.

2. Improved Visibility: The magnification provided by the convex lens makes the details of the object more visible. It allows us to observe small text, intricate designs, or tiny objects more easily.

3. Focal Length: The distance between the lens and the object being viewed is crucial. For maximum magnification, the object should be placed at the focal point of the lens. This ensures that the light rays converge properly and create a clear, magnified image.

Conclusion:
In summary, a common magnifying glass uses a convex lens to magnify objects. The properties of the convex lens allow it to converge light rays, create a magnified virtual image, and improve visibility. The convex lens is the correct option (D) because it accurately describes the lens used in a magnifying glass.

Option d is correct because whenever we keep a convex lens near an object the object is magnified.Thus,it is also called as magnifying glass.