What type of lens is commonly used to correct hyperopia?

To correct hyperopia, which is a condition where distant objects are seen more clearly than close ones, a convex lens is commonly used. This type of lens is thicker in the center than at the edges, and it converges light rays towards a focal point. When light passes through a convex lens, it helps to focus the image directly on the retina rather than behind it, which is a common occurrence in individuals with hyperopia.

In contrast, concave lenses, which are thinner in the center and thicker at the edges, are typically used to correct myopia (nearsightedness), as they diverge light rays and help focus images on the retina for those who see nearby objects clearly but struggle with distant vision. Cylindrical lenses are specifically designed for astigmatism and help correct for the uneven curvature of the cornea, while Fresnel lenses are often used in specific applications like lighthouses and in some optical devices but are not the standard choice for correcting hyperopia. Thus, the use of a convex lens is the most effective and appropriate method for addressing hyperopia.