Science (086) — AI-generated practice question

A concave lens is called a diverging lens because it spreads out (diverges) light rays after refraction. When a ray parallel to the principal axis strikes a concave lens, it refracts and appears to diverge from the principal focus on the same side as the object. These diverged refracted rays never actually meet on the other side of the lens; they only appear to meet when extended backwards.

Since refracted rays always diverge and never actually converge at any point, no real image (which requires actual intersection of rays) can be formed. Regardless of object position, the image formed is always virtual, erect, and diminished, as confirmed by Table 9.5.

Source: Chapter 9, Sections 9.3.3, 9.3.5, 9.3.4

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• Examiners look for three key ideas: (1) the diverging behaviour of rays, (2) the rays only appear to meet (not actually converge), and (3) the conclusion that a real image requires actual intersection of refracted rays — which a concave lens cannot produce.
• Quoting or referencing Table 9.5's conclusion ("always virtual, erect, diminished") adds direct textbook support and scores well.
• Don't just say "rays diverge" — explain why that prevents real image formation.