Light beams and their reflection

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of light beams, particularly laser beams, when reflected in mirrors and made visible through smoke. Participants explore concepts related to light scattering, reflections, and the visibility of laser paths in different conditions, questioning the nature of reflections and the phenomena observed in illuminated and dark environments.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that the visibility of laser beams in smoke is due to light scattering off smoke particles.
  • Others question the clarity of the relationship between the laser beam and its reflection in the mirror, suggesting that the reflection may not be directly linked to the visible path of the beam.
  • A few participants discuss the nature of ordinary mirrors and whether reflections could involve multiple internal reflections or front surface reflections.
  • There is a suggestion that the phenomenon of seeing the laser beam and its reflection may relate to the concept of virtual images, though this is debated.
  • Some participants express confusion about the lack of a visible link between the laser and its reflection, while others argue that such a link is not necessary for understanding reflections.
  • One participant mentions that the laser may be a distraction and compares it to seeing one's own reflection without a visible link to the original object.
  • There are repeated inquiries about the nature of scattering and whether secondary scattering contributes to the visibility of the beam.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various viewpoints on the visibility of laser beams and their reflections, with no consensus reached. Disagreements persist regarding the interpretation of reflections, the role of scattering, and the necessity of a visible link between objects and their reflections.

Contextual Notes

Some participants acknowledge the complexity of the phenomena being discussed, indicating that assumptions about visibility and light behavior may not be fully resolved. The discussion includes references to specific types of mirrors and the conditions under which reflections are observed.

  • #61
As far as I am concerned, this thread can be closed.
 
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  • #62
That was the “horticulture” saying, iirc.
 
  • #63
The problem seems to be not that @elou doesn't understand our explanations, it is that he doesn't believe them. Obviously, people can believe whatever they wish. That doesn't mean they can call it science.

I think at this point, the best advice is that he spend the $5 on a cheap laser pointer and see whatever what he has been told matches observation or not.
 
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  • #64
Here's another thing to explain. The image in a mirror is reversed, left to right, right? Why is it not also reversed top to bottom? Is it an effect of gravity? Will it be different in outer space? I think if @elou can work this out he will be on his way to answering the laser question.
 
  • #65
elou said:
As far as I am concerned, this thread can be closed.
I am glad we could help.
 

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