Diverging Lenses

Definition

Diverging lenses are lenses that are thinner in the middle and cause parallel light rays to spread out or diverge after passing through the lens.

Analogy

Think of diverging lenses as an unruly group of friends who start off close together but then move away from each other as they walk down separate paths.

Related terms

Virtual Image: An image formed by diverging lenses that cannot be projected onto a screen because it is formed by imaginary light rays that only appear to come from a certain location.

Ray Diagrams: Diagrams used to determine how light rays interact with optical devices such as lenses, including diverging lenses.

Refraction: The bending of light as it passes through different mediums, such as air and glass, which occurs when its speed changes.