Calculating Magnification of Christmas Tree Ornament

In summary, the magnification of the image of an object placed 11.9 cm away from a spherical Christmas tree ornament with a diameter of 4.76 cm can be calculated using the equations f = .5*r, (1/di) + (1/do) = 1/f, and m=-(di/do). Assuming the mirror is a spherical mirror, the focal length can be calculated as 1.19 cm and the magnification is -0.1111.
  • #1
Kris1120
42
0

Homework Statement



A spherical Christmas tree ornament is
4.76 cm in diameter.
What is the magnification of the image of
an object placed 11.9 cm away from the ornament?

Homework Equations



f = .5* r

(1/di) + (1/do) = 1/f

m=-(di/do)

The Attempt at a Solution



f = .5*2.38 = 1.19 cm

(1/di) = (1/1.19) - (1/11.9) = 1.32222 cm

m =-(1.32222/11.9) = -0.1111
 
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  • #2
Hi Kris1120,

Kris1120 said:

Homework Statement



A spherical Christmas tree ornament is
4.76 cm in diameter.
What is the magnification of the image of
an object placed 11.9 cm away from the ornament?

Homework Equations



f = .5* r

(1/di) + (1/do) = 1/f

m=-(di/do)

The Attempt at a Solution



f = .5*2.38 = 1.19 cm

I don't believe this is right. What type of mirror is this? What does that tell you about the focal length?
 
  • #3


The magnification of the image of the object placed 11.9 cm away from the ornament is -0.1111, indicating that the image is smaller and inverted compared to the original object. This is due to the concave shape of the ornament, which acts as a diverging lens. The negative sign indicates that the image is inverted. This calculation can be useful in determining the size and orientation of objects viewed through curved lenses, such as in microscopes or telescopes.
 

1. How do I determine the magnification of a Christmas tree ornament?

To calculate the magnification of a Christmas tree ornament, you will need to measure its size and the distance from which it is being viewed. Use the formula: Magnification = Image size / Object size. The image size can be measured by placing a ruler next to the ornament's image and measuring its size in millimeters. The object size can be measured by physically measuring the ornament's size in millimeters. Divide the image size by the object size to determine the magnification.

2. Can I use a regular ruler to measure the ornament's size?

Yes, you can use a regular ruler to measure the ornament's size as long as the ruler has millimeter markings. This will ensure more accurate measurements for calculating the magnification.

3. What is the appropriate distance to measure the ornament from?

The appropriate distance to measure the ornament from is the distance at which it will be viewed. This can vary depending on the size of the ornament and where it will be placed on the Christmas tree. For example, if the viewer will be standing 2 meters away from the tree, then measure the ornament from 2 meters away.

4. Do I need any special equipment to calculate the magnification?

No, you do not need any special equipment to calculate the magnification of a Christmas tree ornament. A ruler and knowledge of the distance from which the ornament will be viewed are all that is needed.

5. Can I use the magnification of an ornament to determine its quality?

No, the magnification of an ornament does not determine its quality. Magnification simply refers to the difference in size between the object and its image. Factors such as materials, craftsmanship, and design play a larger role in determining the quality of a Christmas tree ornament.

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