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Dart82
May9-07, 04:20 PM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
A cat is standing 1m in front of a mirror. a virtual image is formed 10.0m behind the mirror. what is the radius of curvature for the mirror?


2. Relevant equations
1/f = (1/do)+(1/di)
f=+/-(1/2)*R



3. The attempt at a solution
(1/1m + 1/10m)^-1 = .909
.909*2 = 1.82

According to my answer key, R should be equal to 2.2m. the only way i get that answer is if i take (1/do)+(1/di) and not take its reciprocal...i would just plug it straight into the focal length equation to solve for R. Did he make a mistake??

nrqed
May9-07, 04:32 PM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
A cat is standing 1m in front of a mirror. a virtual image is formed 10.0m behind the mirror. what is the radius of curvature for the mirror?


2. Relevant equations
1/f = (1/do)+(1/di)
f=+/-(1/2)*R



3. The attempt at a solution
(1/1m + 1/10m)^-1 = .909
.909*2 = 1.82

According to my answer key, R should be equal to 2.2m. the only way i get that answer is if i take (1/do)+(1/di) and not take its reciprocal...i would just plug it straight into the focal length equation to solve for R. Did he make a mistake??

The image is virtual so di should be taken to be negative.

DAKONG
May9-07, 04:35 PM
you miss substitution
di = -10.0 m :biggrin: