Concave mirror focal length calculator
What is a Concave Mirror Focal Length Calculator?
A Concave Mirror Focal Length Calculator is a tool used to determine the focal length (f) of a concave mirror based on the mirror formula:
Where:
- f = Focal length of the mirror
- u = Object distance (distance from the object to the mirror)
- v = Image distance (distance from the image to the mirror)
For a concave mirror, the focal length is negative, indicating that the focus is on the same side as the object.
Another method to calculate focal length is using the radius of curvature (R):
Where R is the radius of curvature of the mirror.
Why Use a Concave Mirror Focal Length Calculator?
✅ Optical System Design – Helps in designing telescopes, microscopes, and headlights.
✅ Physics and Education – Used in experiments and learning about reflection.
✅ Medical and Industrial Applications – Important for focusing light in medical imaging and laser systems.
✅ Astronomy – Essential for reflecting telescopes and satellite optics.
How to Use the Calculator?
- Input known values:
- Object distance u
- Image distance v
- (Optional) Radius of curvature R
- Apply the formula to solve for focal length f.
- Interpret the result (if f is negative, it's a concave mirror).
Example Calculations
Example 1: Using the Mirror Formula
A concave mirror has an object placed 30 cm away, and the image is formed 60 cm away.
Example 2: Using the Radius of Curvature
If the radius of curvature of a concave mirror is 40 cm, the focal length is:
When is a Concave Mirror Focal Length Calculator Needed?
🔹 In physics labs for mirror experiments
🔹 For designing optical instruments like telescopes and microscopes
🔹 To calculate the focus of headlights and solar concentrators
🔹 For medical applications like dental mirrors and surgical lights