SUMMARY
When light hits a mirror, it does not slow down to change direction; instead, it is absorbed and re-emitted by the mirror. This process differs from refraction, where light changes phase velocity when entering a medium. In the case of conventional rear-surface silvered mirrors, light travels slower than its normal speed in air while passing through the glass before being reflected. Front-surface silvered mirrors, commonly used in telescopes and optometry, reflect light directly back into the air without traversing glass.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of light behavior, specifically reflection and refraction
- Familiarity with the concept of phase velocity
- Knowledge of optical components, particularly mirrors
- Basic principles of physics related to light speed
NEXT STEPS
- Research the principles of light reflection and refraction in detail
- Study the differences between rear-surface and front-surface mirrors
- Explore the concept of phase velocity in various media
- Investigate applications of mirrors in optical instruments like telescopes
USEFUL FOR
Students of physics, optical engineers, and anyone interested in the behavior of light and its applications in technology.