Which type of lens diverges light to correct for nearsightedness?

To correct for nearsightedness, also known as myopia, a lens that diverges light is required. Nearsightedness is a condition where nearby objects appear clear, but distant objects are blurry because the light entering the eye is focused in front of the retina.

A concave lens is designed to diverge light rays that pass through it. When a concave lens is placed in front of a nearsighted eye, it effectively spreads out the light rays, enabling them to converge at the correct point on the retina. This adjustment allows individuals with myopia to see distant objects more clearly.

Convex lenses, on the other hand, converge light rays and are used to correct for farsightedness (hyperopia), where distant objects are seen more clearly than nearby ones. Bifocal lenses have two different optical powers, allowing for correction of both nearsightedness and farsightedness but are not specifically designed just for nearsightedness. Plano lenses have no optical power and are used simply to protect the eyes without affecting vision.

Therefore, for the correction of nearsightedness, the correct lens type is a concave lens, as it uniquely provides the necessary divergence of light.