Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A convex lens is thicker in the middle than at its edges and converges parallel rays of light that pass through it, bringing them together at a focal point.
Related terms
Focal Point: It is the point where parallel rays of light converge or appear to diverge after passing through a lens.
Focal Length: This is the distance between the center of a lens and its focal point. It determines how strongly a lens converges or diverges light.
Converging Lens: A convex lens is also known as a converging lens because it brings parallel rays of light together at a focal point.