Finding distance of image from mirror given focal length

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the distance of an image from a concave mirror with a focal length of 40 cm when the object is positioned at a very large distance, such as 10,000 cm. The relevant equation used is the mirror formula: 1/u + 1/v = 1/f. The conclusion drawn is that the image formed is real and located at a distance of 40 cm from the mirror, as the object distance approaches infinity, the image distance converges to the focal length.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of concave mirrors and their properties
  • Familiarity with the mirror formula: 1/u + 1/v = 1/f
  • Basic knowledge of real and virtual images in optics
  • Concept of focal length in mirror systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the behavior of images formed by concave mirrors at varying object distances
  • Explore the derivation and applications of the mirror formula in optics
  • Learn about the differences between real and virtual images in detail
  • Investigate the effects of changing focal lengths on image formation
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of image formation using concave mirrors.

RabbitWho
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Homework Statement


An object is at a very large distance from a concave mirror of focal length 40cm. Find the distance from the image to the mirror. Is the image real or virtual?

Homework Equations


1/u + 1/v = 1/f

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]

1/u + 1/v = 1/40

The image has to be real because it must be outside the focus if it is very far from the mirror, right?
It seems to me like I haven't got enough information to solve the problem. How would I go about doing it? The answer from the key is 40cm.
 
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What do you get if you put in a very large number (say, 10000cm) for the object distance? What happens as that distance gets even farther?
 
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