A mirror reflection of a mirror reflection

In summary, the author attempts to draw a mirror reflection, but fails because the light ray (in yellow) does not go through the bird.
  • #1
PintoCorreia
19
0
a mirror reflection

Homework Statement



ALUdyoB.png


Create a set-up, as shown in the Figure, consisting of two mirror tiles (A and B)
and a bird face, facing to the right . Make sure the two mirrors are perpendicular to the table and parallel to each other. The situation shown is a front view of the situation.

A: If look at a mirror from the same direction and angle as one of the two arrows that are drawn, you will see the bird in the mirror. Draw the two mirror images of the bird, making sure the bird mirror is facing to the correct side!

B: Also add mirror image B' of mirror B to mirror A.

Homework Equations


mirror images

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to draw a mirror reflection.
9U67i12.png

But Can the light ray (in yellow) simply go through the bird?
 
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  • #2
Hey there!

Use the laws of reflection which states that :
a.The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.
b. The incident ray, reflected ray and the normal to the surface lies in the same plane.


Now, It is to be kept in mind while tracing the image on an object that, no image is formed if there is no reflection.
 
  • #3
phyneach said:
Hey there!

Use the laws of reflection which states that :
a.The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.
b. The incident ray, reflected ray and the normal to the surface lies in the same plane.


Now, It is to be kept in mind while tracing the image on an object that, no image is formed if there is no reflection.

I know this, but A is a mirror! Of course there is reflection on a mirror! Have you actually read the question? And you suppose to see the bird in mirror A, as stated in the question.
 
  • #4
You could certainly argue that from position B you will not see the whole image. In particular, you will not see the near side of the bird (the far side of the image). Whether a light ray on the line shown will reach you is not clear, since we do not have a plan view of the set-up. It could be that B is much closer to us than is the bird.
 
  • #5
The yellow line drawn does not follow the direction of the arrow B. It is at an angle to it.

If I read the question correctly it is implying you will only see an image of the bird from one of the two positions. If that is the case, remembering to apply rule a. stated helpfully by phyneach, that you are already aware of, draw STRAIGHT lines and see which position actually has a "line of sight" to the bird.

(At a glance, perhaps it is not position B, but I could be wrong)

Consider why the outer two lines are given in this problem. They seem very conveniently positioned for where one might expect a virtual image to appear or be drawn as an answer.

https://www.google.com.au/?gfe_rd=c...rror+virtual+image&biv=i|11;d|ghfxmbJIYCyg6M:
 
  • #6
@haruspex: "we do not have a plan view of the set-up. It could be that B is much closer to us than is the bird" <-- No, this would make it too complicated, simply expect that this is not the case, you can see the bird in the mirror if your x-position is at A or B and your Y-position is at a higher point than the mirror itself.

@mic*: "The yellow line drawn does not follow the direction of the arrow B. It is at an angle to it." well, how would you draw the line?
 
  • #7
Also: how would you add "mirror image B' of mirror B to mirror A." if some parts are obscured??
 
  • #8
Did you click the link I attached?
 

1. What causes the never-ending reflections in a mirror reflection of a mirror reflection?

The never-ending reflections in a mirror reflection of a mirror reflection are caused by the phenomenon of multiple reflections, where light bounces back and forth between two reflective surfaces, creating an infinite series of reflections.

2. How does a mirror reflection of a mirror reflection work?

A mirror reflection of a mirror reflection works by reflecting light off of two parallel mirrors, with each reflection creating another mirror image that is reflected back again and again, creating a seemingly endless series of reflections.

3. Can a mirror reflection of a mirror reflection create a perfect reflection?

No, a mirror reflection of a mirror reflection cannot create a perfect reflection. Each reflection results in a slightly diminished image due to the loss of light with each bounce, making the final image slightly darker and less clear than the original reflection.

4. Is there a limit to the number of reflections in a mirror reflection of a mirror reflection?

There is no limit to the number of reflections in a mirror reflection of a mirror reflection. As long as the two mirrors remain parallel and the light source remains constant, the reflections will continue infinitely.

5. Can a mirror reflection of a mirror reflection be used for practical purposes?

While a mirror reflection of a mirror reflection may not have many practical applications, it is a fascinating phenomenon that can be used to create interesting visual effects or illusions. It can also be used as a teaching tool to demonstrate the principles of light and reflection.

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