How Do You Calculate the Radius of Curvature for a Mirror?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the radius of curvature for a mirror, specifically in the context of a problem involving image magnification and distance from the mirror. Participants are exploring the relationship between these variables and the properties of mirrors.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to relate the radius of curvature to the distance from the mirror, expressing confusion about their calculation. Other participants question the assumptions regarding the mirror's shape and its relationship to image formation and magnification.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some providing hints and guidance on how to approach the calculation of the radius of curvature through magnification and focal length. There is a recognition that the mirror's shape remains constant despite changes in distance.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on understanding the definitions and relationships between radius of curvature, focal length, and magnification, with some participants expressing uncertainty about the correct approach to the problem.

Huskies213
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:confused: Can anyone explain what i am doing wrong?
I thought the radius of curvature is 2 x the distance from mirror..

A mirror produces an image magnified by 1.5 when your face is 29 cm from the mirror. What is the radius of curvature?

I thought it would be .29m x 2 = .58m... but that is wrong.. can anyone help?!?
 
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The radius of curvature of a mirror is a statement about the shape of the mirror. Does a mirror change shape when you move to different distances from it?
 
RE mirrors

no the mirror doesn't change shape when you move distances from it. the image does... *more hints ...im still lost...
 
You need to work out the Radius of Curvature from the magnification.

Also, Radius of Curvature = 2 x the focal length (f) - so if you can figure out f, then you can figure out the radius of curvature quite easily.

Claude.
 

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