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Lens Formula Calculator

Compute 1/f = 1/u + 1/v and magnification for a thin lens.

Input Data

Object Distance M
cm
Focal Length M
cm

Results

v from 1/v = 1/f − 1/u.
60cm
m = −v/u.
-2×

At a glance:1/f = 1/u + 1/v; m = −v/u. Complements lens-makers-equation and lens-power.

Formula

1/v = 1/f − 1/u.

$$\frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{u} + \frac{1}{v}, \quad M = -\frac{v}{u}, \quad f > 0\,\text{(converging)}, \quad f < 0\,\text{(diverging)}$$

How to Use

  1. Enter object distance and focal length.
  2. The tool returns image distance and magnification.

Case Studies

u=0.3, f=0.1

v=0.15 m, m=−0.5.

FAQ

Sign convention?

Real-is-positive: inverted image gives negative m.

Related Tools

References

Content review: Calculatorism Science Team. Results are for reference only; please refer to the relevant authorities for the official figures.

Found a problem with the results?

If this calculator's result is wrong, or you have any question about the calculation logic, please let us know. You are viewing:Lens Formula Calculator(/physics/lens-formula)。