Derivation of Lensmaker's Equation

Derivation of Lensmaker's Equation

Formal & Physical Sciences Physics PHPhysicsPHJOptical physics
🎙 Andrey K 👥 852K 📅 January 22, 2014 ⏱ 15 min 👁 42K 📄 tutorial 🧭 2026-08-17
Available in: English (current) Français

Keywords

lensmaker's equationfocal lengthradius of curvatureSnell's lawthin lens

Summary

The video presents a detailed derivation of the lensmaker’s equation, which relates the focal length of a thin lens to its refractive index and the radii of curvature of its two surfaces. The derivation begins with a diagram of a double convex lens, identifying key points and angles. Snell’s law is applied at both surfaces, and small-angle approximations are used to simplify trigonometric functions. Geometric relationships between angles are established, and the heights of the incident rays are related to the radii and focal length. By combining these equations and assuming the lens is thin, the lensmaker’s equation is derived: 1/f = (n-1)(1/R1 + 1/R2). The video concludes by noting the sign convention for concave lenses.

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Critical Evaluation

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The video provides a clear and logical derivation, building step by step from Snell’s law and geometry. The argumentation is solid, with each step justified and the assumptions (thin lens, small angles) explicitly stated. The use of diagrams and color-coded angles aids understanding. However, the video does not discuss the physical significance or applications of the equation, nor does it address potential errors or limitations.

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Title / Content Match

The title accurately describes the content, which is a step-by-step derivation of the lensmaker's equation.

Quality & Reliability

8/10

The derivation is mathematically rigorous, follows standard textbook methods, and uses clear geometric and trigonometric reasoning. The assumptions (thin lens, small angles) are explicitly stated. However, the video lacks references to external sources and does not discuss limitations or alternative derivations.

Key Moments

Cited Sources

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Contribution & Novelties

The video provides a clear and systematic derivation of the lensmaker’s equation, which is a fundamental result in geometrical optics. It is particularly useful for students who want to understand the derivation rather than just memorize the formula. The step-by-step approach with visual aids enhances comprehension.

Pour aller plus loin :

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Radar Profile

The radar profile shows high scores in quality and reliability, with moderate scores in quantity and technical level. This indicates a focused, accurate tutorial that may lack breadth but is solid in its core content.

Reliability 8/10