Final answer:
To calculate the resolving power of a telescope, use the formula θmin = 1.22 λ/D, plugging in the wavelength of light and the diameter of the telescope's lens.
Step-by-step explanation:
The resolving power of a telescope is determined by its ability to distinguish between two closely spaced objects. The key formula to calculate the resolving power or resolution limit θmin of a telescope is given by θmin = 1.22 λ/D, where λ is the wavelength of light and D is the diameter of the telescope's primary lens or mirror. To find the resolving power of a telescope with a 41 cm primary lens, we need to use 550 nm (convert to meters) for the wavelength of light, which is typically used in these calculations. So, θmin = 1.22 * (550e-9 m) / 0.41 m. Calculating this would give us the telescope's resolving power in radian units.