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The ratio of powers P1​ and P2​ of two lenses L1​ and L2​ is 1:4. The ratio of the focal lengths of L1​ and L2​ is:

A. 1:2
B. 1:4
C. 2:1
D. 4:1

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The power of a lens is inversely proportional to its focal length. Given a power ratio of 1:4 between two lenses, the ratio of their focal lengths is 4:1, matching option D.

Step-by-step explanation:

The power of a lens (P) is the inverse of its focal length. We have a ratio of powers P1 to P2 as 1:4, meaning if P1 is 1 diopter, then P2 is 4 diopters.

Using the formula P = 1/f, the power is inversely proportional to the focal length, so if one lens is four times as powerful as the other, its focal length must be one-fourth that of the less powerful lens.

Therefore, the ratio of focal lengths of L1 to L2 would be 4:1, which corresponds to option D. 4:1.

User Eric Lafortune
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