How is magnification represented mathematically?

How is magnification represented mathematically?

• A. M = image height + object height
• B. M = - image distance / object distance
• C. M = image height / object height
• D. M = image distance + object distance

Answer: (C)

Magnification is a key concept in optics that describes how much larger or smaller an image is compared to the object being observed. Mathematically, magnification is represented as the ratio of the height of the image to the height of the object. This relationship can help determine how physically enlarged or reduced an image appears when formed by optical devices such as lenses or mirrors. When magnification is expressed as the ratio of the image height to the object height, it provides a clear understanding of image characteristics. For example, if the magnification value is greater than one, the image is larger than the object; if it is less than one, the image appears smaller. This formulation is particularly useful in practical applications such as in photography, microscopy, and other fields requiring precise measurements of image size. In contrast to this correct representation, the other mathematical expressions listed do not define magnification accurately. They may relate to other optics concepts but do not convey the direct relationship of image height to object height that defines magnification. Thus, the formulation of magnification as the ratio of image height to object height succinctly captures its essence and application in optical systems.

Magnification is a key concept in optics that describes how much larger or smaller an image is compared to the object being observed. Mathematically, magnification is represented as the ratio of the height of the image to the height of the object. This relationship can help determine how physically enlarged or reduced an image appears when formed by optical devices such as lenses or mirrors.

When magnification is expressed as the ratio of the image height to the object height, it provides a clear understanding of image characteristics. For example, if the magnification value is greater than one, the image is larger than the object; if it is less than one, the image appears smaller. This formulation is particularly useful in practical applications such as in photography, microscopy, and other fields requiring precise measurements of image size.

In contrast to this correct representation, the other mathematical expressions listed do not define magnification accurately. They may relate to other optics concepts but do not convey the direct relationship of image height to object height that defines magnification. Thus, the formulation of magnification as the ratio of image height to object height succinctly captures its essence and application in optical systems.