Last updated: March 2, 2026 by James Wilson

Thin Lens Equation Calculator

Formula

1/f = 1/do + 1/di, where f is focal length, do is object distance, and di is image distance.

Use the thin lens equation (1/f = 1/do + 1/di) to find image distance and magnification for convex and concave lenses used in cameras, microscopes, and telescopes.

Common use cases:

  • Camera lens design
  • Microscope optics
  • Eyeglass prescriptions

Frequently Asked Questions

JW

James Wilson

Licensed Professional Engineer, PE, MS Civil Engineering

James is a Licensed Professional Engineer with a Master's in Civil Engineering and over 12 years of experience in structural design and construction project management. He specializes in building calculations, material estimation, and physics-based engineering tools.

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