Calculating Image Height of Flower in Convex Mirror | Homework Question

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the height of an image formed by a convex mirror, given the focal length and the height of an object (a flower) placed in front of the mirror. The context is within optics, specifically the behavior of convex mirrors.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to use the mirror equation and magnification formula to find the image height but expresses uncertainty about their calculations. Some participants question the application of the focal length in the context of a convex mirror and suggest corrections to the sign of the focal length.

Discussion Status

Participants are engaged in clarifying the correct application of the mirror equation and magnification formula. Some guidance has been offered regarding the sign convention for the focal length of a convex mirror, and there is an ongoing exploration of the calculations involved.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the need to adhere to the conventions for focal lengths in convex mirrors, which may not have been fully considered by the original poster. The discussion also emphasizes the forum's approach to fostering understanding rather than providing direct answers.

Brittany King
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1. Homework Statement

A convex spherical mirror with a focal length of magnitude 25 cm has a 4.0-cm tall flower placed 100 cm in front of it. What is the height of the image of the flower?

a.20 cm
b. 1.6 cm
c .0.80 cm
d. 4.0 cm
e. 8.0 cm

Homework Equations



1/f=1/do+1/di

M=-di/do=hi/ho

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
Using mirror equation I calculated di=33.3cm
Using Magnification equation I calculated hi=1.33cm

I thought this would be a simple problem, I don't see my mistake. Do any of you? Thanks in advance.
 
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Please, show the steps in your calculation...
 
you have used the correct equations, but you forget about the focal length of convex mirror is virtual, hence you should substitutes f = -25 cm, and you should get di = -20 cm , hence, hi = 0.80 cm
 
yihloong said:
you have used the correct equations, but you forget about the focal length of convex mirror is virtual, hence you should substitutes f = -25 cm, and you should get di = -20 cm , hence, hi = 0.80 cm
Hello yihloong, :welcome:

Please note that in PF we don't provide the answers: we help the posters learn and understand by pointing at mistakes and by asking relevant questions. Directly giving an answer often robs the poster from a valuable learning experience
 

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