Given:
Focal length, f = 10 cm
Magnification, m = +4 (Image is erect.)
Object distance, u = ?
Applying magnification formula, we get:
m = v/u
or, 4 = v/u
or, v = 4u
Applying lens formula, we get:
1/v 1/u = 1/f
1/4u 1/u = 1/10
or, u = 30/4
or, u = 7.5 cm
Thus, the object must be placed at a distance of 7.5 cm in front of the lens.