Q140 / 150 · MHT CET 2025 (21 Apr Shift 2) · Physics

A plano convex lens fits exactly in to a plano concave lens. Their plane surfaces are parallel to each other. Lenses are made up of different materials of refractive indices ' $n_1$ ' $n_2$ ' and ' $R$ ' is the radius of curvature of the curved surface of lenses. Focal length of the combination is

  • A
    $\frac{\mathrm{R}}{\mathrm{n}_1+\mathrm{n}_2}$
  • B
    $\frac{2 \mathrm{R}}{\mathrm{n}_1-\mathrm{n}_2}$
  • C
    $\frac{\mathrm{R}}{2\left(\mathrm{n}_1-\mathrm{n}_2\right)}$
  • Correct answer
    D
    $\frac{\mathrm{R}}{\mathrm{n}_1-\mathrm{n}_2}$

Solution

Focal length analysis of the lens combination

The focal length of each lens is determined using the Lens Maker's Formula: $\frac{1}{f} = (n-1)\left(\frac{1}{R_1} - \frac{1}{R_2}\right)$, assuming light travels left to right.

For the plano-convex lens, the first surface is flat ($R_1 = \infty$) and the second surface is convex with $R_2 = -R$.

$\frac{1}{f_1} = (n_1 - 1)\left(\frac{1}{\infty} - \frac{1}{-R}\right) = \frac{n_1 - 1}{R}$

The plano-concave lens interfaces with the convex surface, giving $R_1 = -R$ for its concave surface, while its second surface is flat ($R_2 = \infty$).

$\frac{1}{f_2} = (n_2 - 1)\left(\frac{1}{-R} - \frac{1}{\infty}\right) = -\frac{n_2 - 1}{R}$

Combining the thin lenses in contact:

$\frac{1}{F_{eq}} = \frac{1}{f_1} + \frac{1}{f_2} = \frac{n_1 - 1}{R} - \frac{n_2 - 1}{R} = \frac{n_1 - n_2}{R}$

$F_{eq} = \frac{R}{n_1 - n_2}$

This result corresponds to option D.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'D'.

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