This deep dive covers How Lenses Work within Lenses & Images for GCSE Physics. Revise Lenses & Images in Waves for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 15 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 2 of 14 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 2 of 14
Practice
13 questions
Recall
15 flashcards
🔍 How Lenses Work
A lens works by refracting (bending) light rays. The shape of the lens determines how much and in which direction rays bend:
Convex (converging) lens
Thicker in the middle, thinner at the edges. Parallel rays of light are refracted toward the principal axis and converge at the focal point (F) on the other side. This is because the edges of the lens have a steeper angle, causing more refraction than the centre. Used in magnifying glasses, cameras, and the eye.
Concave (diverging) lens
Thinner in the middle, thicker at the edges. Parallel rays are refracted away from the principal axis and appear to diverge from a focal point on the same side as the incoming light. Used in spectacles for short-sightedness.
Keep building this topic
Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Lenses & Images. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.
Practice Questions for Lenses & Images
What does a convex (converging) lens do to parallel rays of light?
Explain the difference between a converging lens and a diverging lens. Include what each type does to parallel rays of light.
Quick Recall Flashcards
13 questions on Lenses & Images — practise free
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