Workout: Flat mirrors

Read

The ray model of light and Flat mirrors.

Launch

the oPhysics simulation, Plane mirrors.

Set up

We’ve linked to the oPhysics index page so you can see the other available sims. Choose Plane Mirrors. The screen will look something like the image below.

Answer these questions

1. The rays are intended to show you how the image is formed, but the colors are a bit confusing. Explain which rays you should follow to decide where the top of the image will seem to be.

2. Move the object back and forth to see how the image moves when the object moves. Explain why the image is located behind the mirror (where there are no light rays coming from the object) instead of on the mirror.

Joe Redish 4/14/18