Distance Between Woman and Mirrored Images in Reflection Experiment

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the distances of images formed by two plane mirrors positioned 10 meters apart, with a woman standing 3 meters from one mirror. The first image is located 6 meters from the woman, while the second image is 14 meters away. The calculation for the second image is derived from the total distance of 20 meters, which includes the distance from the woman to the first mirror and the distance between the mirrors.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic optics principles, specifically image formation by mirrors.
  • Familiarity with geometric concepts related to distances and reflections.
  • Ability to visualize and draw diagrams of mirror setups and image locations.
  • Knowledge of basic arithmetic for calculating distances.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of reflection and image formation in plane mirrors.
  • Learn about the geometric properties of reflections in optics.
  • Explore more complex mirror setups, such as angled mirrors and their effects on image formation.
  • Investigate practical applications of mirror reflections in optical devices.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly in optics, educators teaching reflection concepts, and anyone interested in the practical applications of mirror image formation.

jsalapide
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two plane mirrors facing each other are 10m apart. A woman stands 3 m from one of the mirrors and looks at the mirror and sees two distinct images. How far are these images from the woman?

this one is a bit confusing.. can somebody knows how to solve it?
 
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jsalapide said:
two plane mirrors facing each other are 10m apart. A woman stands 3 m from one of the mirrors and looks at the mirror and sees two distinct images. How far are these images from the woman?

this one is a bit confusing.. can somebody knows how to solve it?

Draw the mirrors and imaginary images S1' and S2' of the women in each of the mirrors. Also draw an imaginary image of the imaginary image in the other mirror. So you can calculate the distances between the woman and the imaginary imaginary images.
 
I followed what you said..

should the answer be 16 m??
 
No. The answer is 6m and 14m for first and second images.
 
ok, the first image was 6m. but how do you get 14m for the second image?

I assume that the distance of the second image is 14 m if the woman is facing at the mirror 7m away from her. But what if she is facing the mirror which is 3m away from her? could the second image still be 14m?
 
You are right. The second distance is 20m = (14m + 3m) + 3m.
 
ok sir, thanks for the time..
 

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