Is the Focal Point of a Concave Mirror Always Positive?

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SUMMARY

The focal point of a concave mirror is always positive, as it is located on the same side as the incoming light. The radius of curvature is also positive, being twice the focal length. Lateral magnification is greater than zero when the object is placed in front of the mirror, indicating that images formed are upright and larger than the object. The relationship between focal length and radius of curvature is defined by the equation: focal length = radius of curvature / 2.

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  • Understanding of concave mirrors and their properties
  • Basic knowledge of optics and light behavior
  • Familiarity with the concepts of focal length and radius of curvature
  • Ability to interpret magnification in optical systems
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  • Study the principles of ray diagrams for concave mirrors
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  • Explore the applications of concave mirrors in real-world scenarios, such as telescopes
  • Investigate the differences between concave and convex mirrors
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afcwestwarrior
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I know that when the focal point is in the inside of a concave mirror. The focal point is greater than zero, and the radius is greater than zero and the lateral magnification is greater than zero.

So if the focal point is on the outside of this concave mirror. Would the focal point be less than zero, and would the radius be less than zero, and would the lateral magnification be less than zero.
 
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Sorry not sure what you mean, the focal length of a concave mirror is half the radius of curvature.

see http://www.glenbrook.k12.il.us/GBSSCI/PHYS/class/refln/u13l3a.html
 
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