Image Distance and Magnification

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the optics of a convex mirror, specifically focusing on the image distance and magnification of an object placed in front of a spherical glass ornament. The original poster presents calculations based on the mirror formula and expresses uncertainty about the correctness of their results.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the mirror formula to determine the image distance and magnification, questioning their arithmetic and the validity of their results. Other participants suggest reviewing the calculations and provide feedback on the method used.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants engaged in verifying calculations and addressing potential errors. There is acknowledgment of incorrect results, but no consensus has been reached regarding the correct answers or methods.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the assumption that the object behaves as if it is in front of a convex mirror, and there is a focus on ensuring the arithmetic is accurate. The original poster expresses doubt about their calculations, indicating a need for further clarification.

erik-the-red
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Question

An object is a distance of 23.4 cm from the center of a silvered spherical glass Christmas tree ornament which has a diameter of 5.70 cm.

A What is the position of its image?

B What is the magnification of its image?

I think the object can be treated as a convex mirror.

s (object distance) = 23.4 cm
R = -(5.70)/2 = -2.85 cm

[tex]\frac{1}{s} + \frac{1}{s'} = \frac{2}{R}[/tex]

Using that equation, I get [tex]\frac{1}{s'} = \frac{2}{-2.85} - \frac{1}{23.4}[/tex].

Then, s' = -1.12 cm.

And, [tex]m = -\frac{s'}{s}[/tex], so m = .048.

I know for sure that -1.12 cm is not the correct answer, so most likely my second answer is also incorrect.

What did I do wrong?
 
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Did I not provide enough work?
 
Your method is fine but check your arithmetic.
 
Sorry, I still get the same answer.
 
erik-the-red said:
Using that equation, I get [tex]\frac{1}{s'} = \frac{2}{-2.85} - \frac{1}{23.4}[/tex].

Then, s' = -1.12 cm.
Please redo this calculation.
 
Doc Al,

Indeed, it was incorrect. Thanks!
 

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