What characterizes convex lenses?

Convex lenses are characterized by their ability to curve outward. This outward curvature allows them to converge light rays that pass through the lens. When parallel rays of light enter a convex lens, they bend towards the centerline and converge at a focal point on the opposite side of the lens. This property is essential for applications such as magnifying glasses, cameras, and corrective lenses, where the bending of light is used to form clear images.

The thick center of convex lenses also plays a key role in their function, as it is typically where the bending of light is most pronounced. A lens that is thicker in the middle will have a stronger ability to converge light. Those characteristics are fundamental to understanding how convex lenses manipulate light to produce magnification or focused images.