Question

A scientist looks through a microscope with two thin lenses with \(m_{1}\) \(=10\) and \(m_{2}=40 .\) What is the overall magnification of this microscope? (A) 0.25 (B) 30 (C) 50 (D) 400

Short answer

D

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Magnifications

Note the given magnifications of the two lenses, which are denoted as \(m_1 = 10\) and \(m_2 = 40\).

Calculate the Overall Magnification

The overall magnification \(m\) of a microscope using two lenses is the product of the magnifications of the individual lenses. Therefore, \(m = m_1 \times m_2\). Substitute the given values: \(m = 10 \times 40\).

Perform the Multiplication

Multiply the magnifications: \(10 \times 40 = 400\).

Determine the Correct Answer Choice

From the given options, the overall magnification of the microscope is 400, which corresponds to option (D).

Key concepts

calculating magnification

When using a microscope with more than one lens, calculating the overall magnification is straightforward. The total magnification is the product of the magnifications of the individual lenses. For instance, in our problem, the two lenses have magnifications of 10 and 40. To find the overall magnification, simply multiply these values: \(10 \times 40 = 400\). The overall magnification is thus 400. Understanding this basic principle helps scientists and students interpret microscopic observations more accurately. Always remember: when you increase magnification, you gain more detail, but you might need to adjust settings for clarity.

compound microscope

A compound microscope is a powerful tool used in many scientific fields to magnify tiny objects. It uses two or more lenses to achieve high magnification. The primary lens, or objective lens, is closest to the object being observed. It creates an enlarged image of the object. The second lens, known as the eyepiece, further magnifies this image. This step-by-step magnification process allows compound microscopes to produce much higher magnifications than simple microscopes.

optics in physics

Optics in physics is the study of light and how it interacts with different materials. It covers concepts like reflection, refraction, and magnification, which are key to understanding how lenses and microscopes work. Light can bend, or refract, when it passes through materials like glass—this is how lenses can magnify images. By designing lenses with specific shapes and materials, scientists can create devices to manipulate light precisely, enhancing our ability to observe tiny details in our world. From everyday glasses to advanced microscopes, optics plays a crucial role in technology and scientific discovery.