A biconvex lens of focal length f forms a circular image of sun of radius r in focal plane. Then
(A)πr2∝f
(B)πr2∝f2✓ Correct
(C)if lower half part is covered by black sheet, then area of the image is equal to πr2/2
(D)if f is doubled, intensity will increase
Answer: (B)
Solution
The sun subtends a small angle α at the lens. The radius of the image formed in the focal plane is:
r=ftanα≈fα
Since α is constant (angular size of the sun), we have r∝f.
Therefore, the area of the image:
πr2∝f2
This is option (B).
Note: If the lower half is covered, the entire image still forms (with reduced intensity), not half the area. If f is doubled, the area increases by 4 times, so intensity (power per unit area) decreases.