The ray tracing technique is based on two reference planes, called the input and output planes, each

perpendicular
to the optical axis of the system. Without loss of generality, we will define the optical axis so that it coincides with
the z axis of a fixed coordinate system. A light ray enters the system when the ray crosses the input plane at a
distance x1 from the optical axis while traveling in a direction that makes an angle θ1 with the optical axis. Some
distance further along, the ray crosses the output plane, this time at a distance x2 from the optical axis and making
an angle θ2.

n1 and n2 are the indices of refraction of the medium in the input and output plane, respectively.

These quantities are related by the expression:

𝑥% 𝐴 𝐵 𝑥&
𝜃% = 𝐶 𝐷 𝜃&

34 34 74 74
unde 𝐴 = | 𝐵 = | 𝐶= | 𝐷= |
35 75 89 35 35 89 35 75 89 75 35 89

𝐴 𝐵 ;
𝑀= se numeste matrice de transfer. Se poate demonstra ca determinantul lui M este egal cu raportul 5.
𝐶 𝐷 ;4

The focal length of a lens

The lens surface is spherically curved so that incoming, parallel, horizontal rays of light converge to a point on the
other side of the lens. This special place of convergence is called the focal point. Its distance from the lens center
is called the focal depth or focal length. The focal plane is perpendicular on the optical axis and contains the focal
point.

[1]

If the rays are parallel but not perpendicular to the lens plane, then the focal point shifts in the focal plane
accordingly.

[1]

If the rays are not parallel, then it may still be possible to focus them into a real image, as shown in the next
figure. The condition is: suppose that a lens is given that has focal length f. If the light source is placed at the
distance s1 from the lens, then the rays from that will be in focus if and only if the following equation is satisfied
(derived from Snell laws):