Optical Magnification Calculator
Linear magnification is the ratio between image height and object height. This version reports magnitude without orientation sign.
How to use this calculator
- Enter image and object heights using the same length unit.
- Confirm that all inputs use the stated units and the same population, period or scope.
- Change one assumption at a time when comparing scenarios.
Formula used by the optical magnification calculator
|m| = |image height| ÷ |object height|
- |m| = |image height| ÷ |object height|
- The ratio alone does not determine focal length, image location, orientation or whether a system is optically valid.
- Inputs are validated against required ranges and outputs are rounded for readability.
Worked examples
Worked example
An image height of 10 mm from an object 2 mm tall.
Magnification magnitude is 5×.
Magnification magnitude is 5×.
Understanding the result
Linear magnification is the ratio between image height and object height. This version reports magnitude without orientation sign.
The ratio alone does not determine focal length, image location, orientation or whether a system is optically valid.
Important notes
The ratio alone does not determine focal length, image location, orientation or whether a system is optically valid.
Use the result as a calculation aid for the inputs supplied; confirm critical specifications independently.
Frequently asked questions
Does 5× mean the image is five times taller?
Yes, the image-height magnitude is five times the object height.
Does it include inverted images?
It reports magnitude only and omits the signed orientation convention.
How do I use this calculator?
Enter image and object heights using the same length unit.
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This page provides a calculation tool plus explanatory information so you can understand what the result means and when the underlying method may not fit your situation.