Ray Diagrams

[ANEShopeful2018]

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Hi, I hope this question hasn't been asked too many times already...if it has, then I apologize in advance.

I was reading about Optics for Physics and they started talking about ray diagrams. However, I have taken 4 FLs and haven't needed to use them once. If you memorize what types of images form from the different mirrors/lens, is it necessary to know how to construct one?

Thanks!

 

[bullsfan1986]

Hi, I hope this question hasn't been asked too many times already...if it has, then I apologize in advance.

I was reading about Optics for Physics and they started talking about ray diagrams. However, I have taken 4 FLs and haven't needed to use them once. If you memorize what types of images form from the different mirrors/lens, is it necessary to know how to construct one?

Thanks!

Not really. You'll probably be fine if you know what sort of images are formed at different points (f, 2f, =f, etc.) for concave mirrors and converging lenses.

 

[dmplz707]

Would you guys say that I could get away without ever having to learn how to draw ray diagrams for the MCAT? Should I learn how to draw ray diagrams or would that just be a waste of time? Thanks.

 

[Axon hillock]

Would you guys say that I could get away without ever having to learn how to draw ray diagrams for the MCAT? Should I learn how to draw ray diagrams or would that just be a waste of time? Thanks.

I don't think it takes that much time to learn it. It's good to know it in the off-chance that it's on the test.