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Question
What is a magnifying glass (or a simple microscope)? Draw a ray diagram to show how a convex lens may be used as a magnifying glass. Where should the object be placed? State three characteristics of the image formed.
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Solution
A magnifying glass is a convex (or converging) lens of B short focal length mounted in a plastic or wooden frame provided with a handle. It is used to see small objects or to read small letters.

The ray diagram showing the use of a convex lens as a magnifying glass is given in the figure.
The object should be placed in front of the lens between its optical centre and focus.
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