Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
For lenses in contact, \(\frac{1}{F} = \frac{1}{f_1} + \frac{1}{f_2}\).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Given \(f_1 = 20\ \text{cm}\), \(f_2 = 30\ \text{cm}\).
\(\frac{1}{F} = \frac{1}{20} + \frac{1}{30} = \frac{3 + 2}{60} = \frac{5}{60} = \frac{1}{12}\)
\(\Rightarrow F = 12\ \text{cm}\).
Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, focal length = \(12\ \text{cm}\).