Physics

Lens Imaging Calculator

Solve thin-lens image distance, magnification, and orientation.

Last validated: 2026-02-14

Lens Imaging Calculator solves thin-lens relationships to find image distance, magnification, and orientation cues. It is useful in optics coursework and camera/lens planning. The tool simplifies sign-convention bookkeeping in lens equations. Use it to validate lens setup calculations.

Permalink

Input Pattern

Enter values in the left panel, keep units explicit, run the calculation, then copy or share the result. Invalid fields are highlighted immediately.

Thin Lens Inputs

Result

Image distance di: 15.00000000 cm

Magnification m: -0.50000000

Image height hi: -1.00000000 cm

Image type: Real

Orientation: Inverted

How to use this tool

Enter focal length and object distance.
Run the calculator to compute image distance and magnification.
Interpret sign and magnitude to determine real/virtual and image orientation.

Worked Example

Auto-generated from the tool's current default or entered inputs.

Example Inputs

Focal length cm: 10.0
Object distance cm: 30.0
Object height cm: 2.0
Image distance cm: 14.999999999999996
Magnification: -0.4999999999999999
Image height cm: -0.9999999999999998
Image type: real
Orientation: inverted

Expected Outputs

Focal length cm: 10
Object distance cm: 30
Object height cm: 2
Image distance cm: 15

Interpretation

Focal length cm is 10.0. Use this as a decision input, not as a standalone conclusion.
Object distance cm is 30.0. Use this as a decision input, not as a standalone conclusion.
Object height cm is 2.0. Use this as a decision input, not as a standalone conclusion.
Confirm unit consistency and operational constraints before applying this result in production or field conditions.

Scenario Compare (A vs B)

Use this to compare two input sets and quantify change in key outputs.

Scenario A

Focal length cm

Object distance cm

Object height cm

Image distance cm

Magnification

Image height cm

Image type

Orientation

Scenario B

Focal length cm

Object distance cm

Object height cm

Image distance cm

Magnification

Image height cm

Image type

Orientation

Confidence and limitations

Outputs are deterministic formula results and depend entirely on input quality and units.
Results are for planning and learning; verify with domain standards before safety-critical use.
Models are idealized and may ignore drag, friction, nonlinearity, and measurement error.

Formula References

SI-unit forms of classical mechanics and wave equations.
Idealized models unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Assumptions

Outputs are deterministic formula results and depend entirely on input quality and units.
Results are for planning and learning; verify with domain standards before safety-critical use.
Models are idealized and may ignore drag, friction, nonlinearity, and measurement error.

Explore more versions

Tailored guides for specific audiences, regions, and scenarios.

core