How far below the top edge does the ray strike the mirror?

In summary, the problem involves a light ray leaving point A and reflecting off a mirror to reach point B. The question asks how far below the top edge the ray strikes the mirror. The solution involves marking the point where the ray hits the mirror and using a theorem or drawing an image to find the answer.
  • #1
rayhan619
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Homework Statement


A light ray leaves point A in the figure, reflects from the mirror, and reaches point B. (Intro 1 figure) figure attached

How far below the top edge does the ray strike the mirror?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



im not sure exactly where it says to mark?
 

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  • #2
rayhan619 said:
How far below the top edge does the ray strike the mirror?

im not sure exactly where it says to mark?

Hi rayhan619! :smile:

You have to mark the point where the light hits the mirror …

either use a theorem about reflection angles,

or draw the image of one and join it to the other. :wink:
 
  • #3


The ray strikes the mirror at point C, which is the intersection of the incident ray and the mirror. The distance from point C to the top edge of the mirror can be calculated using the law of reflection, which states that the angle of incidence (i) is equal to the angle of reflection (r). Therefore, the angle of incidence can be determined using the given information in the figure, and then the distance from point C to the top edge of the mirror can be calculated using basic trigonometry.
 

1. How is the distance from the top edge of the mirror to the point where the ray strikes calculated?

The distance is calculated using basic trigonometry, specifically the Law of Reflection, which states that the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection. By measuring the angle of incidence and knowing the distance from the top edge to the mirror, the distance to the point of reflection can be easily determined.

2. Does the angle of incidence affect the distance from the top edge to the point of reflection?

Yes, the angle of incidence does affect the distance. The greater the angle of incidence, the further the ray will strike from the top edge of the mirror. This is because the angle of reflection will also be greater, resulting in a longer distance from the top edge.

3. Is the distance from the top edge to the point of reflection the same for all types of mirrors?

Yes, the distance from the top edge to the point of reflection is the same for all types of mirrors as long as the angle of incidence and the angle of reflection are equal. However, the size and shape of the mirror may affect the overall distance from the top edge to the point of reflection.

4. Can the distance from the top edge to the point of reflection be greater than the distance from the top edge to the bottom edge of the mirror?

Yes, it is possible for the distance from the top edge to the point of reflection to be greater than the distance from the top edge to the bottom edge of the mirror. This can occur if the angle of incidence is large enough and the mirror is tall enough.

5. How does the distance from the top edge to the point of reflection affect the size of the reflected image?

The distance from the top edge to the point of reflection does not directly affect the size of the reflected image. However, it can affect the angle of reflection, which can in turn affect the size and shape of the reflected image. This is because the angle of reflection determines the direction in which the light is reflected, which can impact the perceived size of the image.

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