Abstract

This experiment investigates the focal length of a convex lens using the lens formula. By
measuring the object distance and image distance , the focal length of the lens is calculated for
different setups. The results obtained from the experiment are compared to theoretical values to
evaluate accuracy. Sources of error, such as measurement inconsistencies and lens imperfections,
are discussed. The findings demonstrate that the experimental focal lengths are close to expected
values, confirming the lens formula's reliability for determining focal lengths in optical systems.

Purpose:
The purpose of this experiment is to determine the focal length of a convex lens using the lens
formula. By varying the distance of an object (d) and measuring the image distance (D), the
relationship between these distances and the focal length of the lens is investigated. This process
aims to validate theoretical predictions and provide practical experience in handling optical
instruments.

OBJECTIVE:
To measure the focal length of a lens by varying the object and image distances and using the
lens formula.

Background
The focal length of a lens is the distance between the lens and the point where parallel rays of
light converge or appear to diverge after passing through the lens. It determines the lens optical
power and is typically measured in millimeters.

INTRODUCTION
Theory

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Lenses work based on refraction, the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another.
When light enters and exits a lens, its speed changes depending on the refractive index of the
lens material, causing the light to bend. The extent of this bending determines the focal length.

The focal length can be determined experimentally using the formula:

f=D2-d2/4D

where:

D: distance between object and image positions

d: distance between object and image distances

Apparatus

 Convex lens
 Lens Stand
 Light Source
 Screen
 Measuring Scale

DATA OF EXPERIMENT: MEASURMENT OF

FOCAL LENGTH
NO D D D2-d2 4D f=D2-d2 (cm)
(CM) (CM) (CM2) (CM) 4D
1 65 31 3264 260 12.55
2 70 38 3456 280 12.34
3 75 43 3776 300 12.587
4 80 48 4096 320 12.8
5 85 54 4309 340 12.67

Procedure:

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 1) Set up the Apparatus: Place the lens securely, position of the light source and place
the screen on the other side of the lens to capture the sharp image.
2) Adjust the positions: Move the object(light source) and the principal axis to ensure
the light rays pass through the lens. Adjust the screen position until a clear and
sharp image of the object is formed on the screen.
3) Measure Distances: Measure the total distance between the object (light source)
and the image(screen) using a centimeter scale. Measure the separation between
the object and image distances.
4) Record Observations: Record the values of D and d in a table for multiple trials.
5) Calculate focal length:

Use the formula: f=D2-d2/4D

Data and Error Analysis

The experiment determines the focal length of the lens to be approximately 12.59 cm. The
results are consistent, with minor variations due to experimental errors.

Sources of errors
1. Human error in measuring distances D an d.
2. Alignment errors of the lens, light source, and screen.
3. Parallax errors while taking measurements.
4. Instrumental errors- the centimeter scale may have limited precision

Recommendations
o Use precise measuring instruments to reduce errors.
o Perform multiple trials to improve accuracy.
o Ensure proper alignment of the experimental setup.

Results and Discussion

The measurement aimed to determine the focal length of a convex lens by measuring the
object image distance and calculating the focal length using the given formula.

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Average focal length:

=12.55+12.34+12.59+12.8+12.67/5=12.59cm

The focal length values across the 5 trials are consistent, ranging from 12.34cm and 12.8cm.

The average focal length of the lens was found to be 12.59cm. This consistency suggests that
the experiment was performed carefully, with minimal measurement errors.

Conclusion
The concept of focal length is fundamental in optics, as it determines how a lens focuses light
and forms images. Such measurements have broad applications in various optical devices,
including microscopes, telescopes, cameras, projectors, and corrective lenses. By understanding
the focal length, lenses can be designed and applied effectively in industries such as
photography, medicine, astronomy, and everyday vision correction.

This experiment highlights the importance of precision in measurements and demonstrates how
theoretical principles of optics align with experimental results. While minor errors due to manual
measurements and alignment issues were observed, the overall results validate the method and
underline its practical significance. Improvements such as using more precise instruments and
reducing external disturbances can further enhance the accuracy of such measurements.

In conclusion, the experiment not only provided insight into the properties of a convex lens but
also reinforced the significance of focal length in both theoretical and practical optics.

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