Optimizing Rear-View Mirror Dimensions for Full Rear Window Visibility

In summary, the conversation discusses the dimensions needed for a rear-view mirror in a car to allow the driver to see the entire width and height of the rear window without moving their head. The necessary equations and attempts at a solution are also mentioned. The solution involves drawing the rear window in front of the driver and using geometry to determine the width of the mirror needed.
  • #1
yayirunin2car
12
0

Homework Statement


The rear window in a car is approximately a rectangle, 1.3 m wide and 0.30 m high. The inside rear-view mirror is 0.62 m from the driver's eyes, and 1.58 m from the rear window. What are the minimum dimensions for the rear-view mirror if the driver is to be able to see the entire width and height of the rear window in the mirror without moving her head?


Homework Equations


None really - other than regular geometry stuff like tan theta = y/x, etc.


The Attempt at a Solution


I have none, I've been trying to draw this thing and make triangles or something but I'm completely lost.

Thanks in advance for any help!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Forget that it's a mirror and draw the rear window the correct distance in front of the driver, now draw the mirror as a slot restricting the width - how wide does it have to be to get the lines from the driver to the corners of the 'rear' mirror?
 
  • #3
Yes! Thank you, :-).
 

1. How is an image formed in a plane mirror?

When light rays from an object reflect off a plane mirror, they bounce off at the same angle and form an image that appears to be behind the mirror. This is due to the law of reflection, which states that the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.

2. Is the image formed in a plane mirror always upright?

Yes, the image formed in a plane mirror is always upright and virtual, meaning it cannot be projected onto a screen. This is because the light rays do not actually pass through the image, but instead appear to come from behind the mirror.

3. How does the distance between an object and a plane mirror affect the size of the image?

The distance between an object and a plane mirror does not affect the size of the image. The image formed is always the same size as the object and is located the same distance behind the mirror as the object is in front of the mirror.

4. Can multiple images be formed with a single plane mirror?

No, only one image can be formed with a single plane mirror. This is because the reflected light rays only intersect at one point, creating a single image. However, multiple mirrors can be used to create multiple reflections and images.

5. What is the difference between a real and virtual image in a plane mirror?

A real image is formed when light rays actually intersect at a point and can be projected onto a screen. In a plane mirror, the image is virtual and cannot be projected since the light rays do not actually intersect. The image appears to be behind the mirror, but it is not physically present.

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
9K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
9K
Back
Top