Physics 2002 JAMB Past Questions - Question 22: Which of the following eye defects can be corrected using a cylindrical lens?

Correct Answer

A

Explanation

A cylindrical lens is used to correct astigmatism, which is an eye defect. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or the lens of the eye has an irregular shape, causing light to focus on more than one point in the eye, resulting in blurred or distorted vision. A cylindrical lens is designed to counteract this irregular shape and help focus the light properly on the retina, thus correcting the vision problem associated with astigmatism.

Other common eye defects that may be corrected with different types of lenses include:

1. Myopia (nearsightedness): Corrected with concave lenses (minus prescription).
2. Hyperopia (farsightedness): Corrected with convex lenses (plus prescription).
3. Presbyopia (age-related difficulty in focusing on near objects): Corrected with bifocal or multifocal lenses.
4. Anisometropia (significant difference in prescription between the two eyes): Corrected with different prescription lenses for each eye.

It's essential to have regular eye exams with an optometrist or ophthalmologist to determine your specific vision needs and the appropriate corrective lenses for your eyes.