Is the Universe Like the Inside Of A Spherical Mirror

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SUMMARY

The discussion explores the visual effects of a spherical mirror large enough to encompass a human, specifically a 20-foot diameter mirror. Participants analyze what reflections would appear, noting that an offset light source would influence visibility. A Java applet simulator is referenced for visual experimentation, and it is concluded that a cylindrical mirror could also be used to study similar effects, with reflections varying based on the observer's position relative to the mirror's center.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of geometric optics
  • Familiarity with reflection principles
  • Basic knowledge of light behavior in mirrors
  • Experience with Java applet simulations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research geometric optics and reflection laws
  • Explore the properties of cylindrical mirrors
  • Experiment with the Java applet simulator provided in the discussion
  • Investigate advanced light behavior in non-standard reflective surfaces
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics enthusiasts, educators in optics, and anyone interested in the visual phenomena related to mirrors and light reflection.

Godswitch
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If a spherical mirror was constructed large enough to hold a human with, let's say 20 feet all round, and assuming once positioned centrally and you could see what would your reflection look like?

And by that I am asking just what would you see, would you see any other colour apart from the point of focus and what you were looking at, if you were looking directly ahead, would that not be the back of your head or infact an entire image of your body in 3D form laid out in a flat 2D form or would the reflection be intelligible...?
 
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Is there a light? :P
 
TylerH said:
Is there a light? :P

Yes there is a light, situated offset centre of the sphere. Alternatively the mirrored surface is a 2 way allowing light in but not out, hence.
 
There are several instance of this question on Internet.
Here is a java applet simulator (I don't know if it's accurate). You can move both blue circles (eye and target).
http://www.cut-the-knot.org/Curriculum/Geometry/MirrorSphere.shtml

I don't think you need a spherical mirror though, a cylinder should suffice to study the effects.
 
If your eye were at the center, you'd see the black color of your eye lens no matter which direction you looked. If your eye were off-center, you would approximately see one point on your body in extreme magnification, but it would be elongated in one direction.
 

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