Enter the object distance from the mirror and the image distance from the mirror into the calculator to determine the radius of curvature and focal length.

Mirror Equation Formula

The following equation is used to calculate the radius of curvature and focal length

1/O + 1/I = 2/R = 1/f
  • Where R is the radius of curvature
  • f is the focal length
  • O is the object distance
  • I is the image distance

Mirror Equation Definition

The mirror equation describes the relationship between the radius of curvature of a mirror and the focal length of the mirror.

Mirror Equation Example

How to use the mirror equation?

  1. First, determine the object distance.

    Calculate the distance from the object to the mirror.

  2. Next, determine the image distance.

    Calculate the image the mirror projects the object from the mirror itself.

  3. Finally, calculate the focal length and radius.

    Calculate the radius of curvature and focal length using the equation above.

FAQ

What is the mirror equation?

The mirror equation is, 1/O + 1/I = 2/R = 1/f. It’s used to calculate the radius of curvature and focal length of a curved mirror.

What is a focal length?

The focal length is the distance from the center of the mirror in which reflect light is most densely focused.