Mayra Hinojos

Phy 300-04 Lab

11/16/15

Curved Mirrors Lab

Procedure:

1. Examine the convex mirror

a) Where is the image in relation to the mirror? The image is behind
the mirror.
b) Is the image real or virtual? The image is virtual
c) Does the image seem to exchange left and right? No, the image
does not seem to exchange left and right.
d) Is the image magnified? No, the image is not magnified.
e) Is the image erect? Yes, the image is erect.
2. Examine the concave mirror
2a. the focal length of the mirror is 10 cm, from the mirror to the card.
2b. Place an object outside the focal point
a) Where is the image in relation to the mirror? The image is in front
the mirror.
b) Is the image real or virtual? The image is virtual.
c) Does the image seem to exchange left and right? No, the image
does not seem to exchange left and right.
d) Is the image magnified? No, the image is not magnified.
e) Is the image erect? No, the image is upside down.
2c. place an object inside the focal point
a) Where is the image in relation to the mirror? The image is behind
the mirror.
b) Is the image real or virtual? The image is virtual, inverted and
diminished
c) Does the image seem to exchange left and right? No, the image
does not seem to exchange left and right.
d) Is the image magnified? Yes, the image is magnified.
e) Is the image erect? Yes, the image is erect.

Questions
1. Name one specific use for each type of curved mirror?
Shaving mirrors/ or makeup mirrors are concave mirrors because
of their curved and reflective surface.
Convex mirrors are used inside buildings: Large hospitals, offices
or stores sometimes make use of convex mirrors in order to let
people see what is around a corner to avoid people running into
each other and prevent minor/major collisions.
2. Give one important reason why a concave mirror may not be a good
choice for the rearview mirror of an automobile?
Concave mirrors would not be a good choice for automobiles
because it would have a very limited view, whereas convex
mirror allow for a much larger view in order to see pedestrians
and other cars approaching.
3. A flashlight makes a use of a curved mirror. Which type? Name the
exact point where the light bulb is placed, if the light is to travel far
and straight.
The flash light mirror of camera also makes use of concave
mirrors, the light bulb is placed in front of the mirror, allowing it
to bounce off and reflect light. Yes, the light is to travel far and
straight.
4. Amusement parks often have fun houses containing oddly shaped
mirror that distort your image. Sketch a possible mirror that makes
your head look huge and your body tiny. Identify each part of the
mirror.
When the mirror bulges outward it becomes convex and the
result makes your head look big and fat. When the mirror curves
inward it becomes concave and it gives off the illusion that the
body is tiny. These changes in appearance are caused by a
distortion in the way light is reflected off the mirror.