(a) Water
(b) Glass
(c) Plastic
(d) Clay
Relevant Theory
A lens is an optical device made of a transparent material that refracts (bends) light rays passing through it to form images. The key requirement for any material to be used as a lens is:
- It must allow light to pass through it (transparency).
- It should have a uniform refractive index to bend light properly.
- It must be optically homogeneous for clear image formation.
Solution Roadmap
- Step 1: Recall the definition of a lens.
- Step 2: Identify the key property required → transparency.
- Step 3: Check each option for transparency.
- Step 4: Select the material that does NOT allow light to pass.
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1: A lens must be made of a material that allows light to pass through it (transparent material).
Step 2: Check each option:
- Water → Transparent, allows refraction of light ✔
- Glass → Transparent, commonly used for lenses ✔
- Plastic → Transparent (in optical grade), used in lenses ✔
- Clay → Opaque, does not allow light to pass ✖
Step 3: Since clay does not transmit light, it cannot refract light and hence cannot form images.
Final Answer: (d) Clay
Conceptual Ray Interaction
Significance for Exams
- Frequently asked conceptual MCQ in board exams (1 mark).
- Important for understanding the basic requirement of optical devices.
- Helps in competitive exams (NTSE, Olympiads, JEE Foundation) where material properties and optics are tested.
- Builds foundation for deeper topics like refraction through lenses and image formation.