The ratio of resolving powers of an optical microscope for two wavelengths λ₁ = 4000 Å and λ₂ = 6000 Å is

Concept:

In an optical microscope, a lens is used to see objects.

The resolving power of a lens is the power of a lens to differentiate between objects.

The larger the power of the lens smaller will be the minimum distance between the lines that can differ from one another.

Resolving power depends upon the wavelength.

Resolving power ∝ \(\frac{1}{\lambda}\)

where λ is the wavelength of radiation.

Calculation:

Wavelengths are λ₁ = 4000 Å and λ₂ = 6000 Å is

Resolving power ∝ \(\frac{1}{\lambda}\)

\(\frac{R_1}{R_2} = \frac{\lambda_2}{\lambda_1}\)

\(=\frac{6000Å}{4000Å}\)

\(= \frac{3}{2}\)