Focal Length (f)
Definition
The focal length is the distance between the center of a lens or mirror and its focal point. It determines how much a lens bends light and affects image formation.
Related terms
Magnification: The ratio of an object's image size to its actual size.
Real Image: An image formed by converging light rays that can be projected onto a screen.
Virtual Image: An image formed by diverging light rays that cannot be projected onto a screen but appears to come from behind a mirror or lens.
"Focal Length (f)" appears in:
Study guides (1)
AP Physics 2 - 6.5 Images from Lenses and Mirrors
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Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.