Ray Optics: Reflection and Mirrors
Reflection and Mirrors: Audio Guided Solution
Problem 10:
Obtaining a large spherical mirror with a focal length of 0.654 m from the Physics Storeroom, Mr. H takes his last period class outside for a fascinating demo. A student volunteer holds the mirror at an angle such that the face of the mirror is directed towards the Sun - roughly 1.46x1011 m away. Mr. H then uses a piece of paper with George Washington's picture on it to focus the image of the sun on the sheet of paper. Before the paper engulfs in flames, a bright image of the sun can be seen on the paper. Use the mirror equation to calculate the distance from the mirror to the image of the sun.
Audio Guided Solution
Habits of an Effective Problem Solver
- Read the problem carefully and develop a mental picture of the physical situation. If necessary, sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help you visualize it.
- Identify the known and unknown quantities in an organized manner. Equate given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity - e.g., do = 24.2 cm; di= 16.8 cm; f = ???.
- Use physics formulas and conceptual reasoning to plot a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity.
- Identify the appropriate formula(s) to use.
- Perform substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.
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Get more information on the topic of Reflection and Mirrors at The Physics Classroom Tutorial.
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