Field of View Calculator

| Added in Physics

What is Field of View and Why Should You Care?

Field of View (FOV) represents the observable area you can see through optical instruments like microscopes or telescopes. Whether you are an amateur photographer, hobbyist astronomer, or researcher, understanding FOV is crucial for getting the most from your equipment.

The Formula

[\text{FOV} = \frac{\text{Field Number}}{\text{Objective Magnification}}]

Where:

  • Field Number (f-number) is a value assigned to the lens, representing its diameter
  • Objective Magnification is the lens's magnification power

Calculation Example

For stargazing with a telescope:

  • Field number: 20
  • Objective magnification: 4

[\text{FOV} = \frac{20}{4} = 5]

The field of view is 5 units across.

Microscope Example

Examining a tissue sample:

  • Field number: 15
  • Objective magnification: 10

[\text{FOV} = \frac{15}{10} = 1.5]

The field of view is 1.5 units across, perfect for detailed inspection.

Reference Table

Field Number Magnification FOV
20 4 5
15 10 1.5
30 6 5

Understanding FOV helps you capture exactly what you need, whether gazing at stars or examining microscopic wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Field of view is the observable area you can see through optical instruments like microscopes or telescopes.

FOV equals the field number divided by the objective magnification.

Field number is a value assigned to the eyepiece lens, representing the diameter of the visible field in millimeters.

Higher magnification decreases field of view, showing a smaller but more detailed area.