Lensmaker Equation Calculator

Radius of Curvature of the First Surface:  
Radius of Curvature of the Second Surface:  
Refractive Index of Lens Material: gmol/liter
Refractive Index of Ambient Medium: kelvin
Focal Length:  

What is the Lensmaker’s Equation Calculator?

A Lensmaker’s Equation Calculator is a tool used to determine the focal length of a lens based on its curvature, refractive index, and surrounding medium. It is particularly useful for designing optical systems, including eyeglasses, microscopes, and cameras.

Why use it?

  • To design and manufacture lenses for various optical applications.
  • Helps opticians determine prescription lens specifications.
  • Essential in microscopes, telescopes, and camera lens design.
  • Used in physics and engineering for optics calculations.

How does it work?

The Lensmaker’s Equation is:

Where:

  • f = focal length of the lens
  • n = refractive index of the lens material
  • R1​ = radius of curvature of the first lens surface
  • R2​ = radius of curvature of the second lens surface
  • d = thickness of the lens (if thin, this term is negligible)

For thin lenses, the equation simplifies to:

When is it used?

  • Eyeglass prescription calculations (determining corrective lenses).
  • Camera lens design for achieving the desired focal length.
  • Microscopes and telescopes for scientific and astronomical observations.
  • Laser optics in industrial and medical applications.