Mastering the Mirror Equation for Concave Mirrors in Physics 11

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on applying the mirror equation to determine the image location and height of an object positioned at the center of curvature of a concave mirror. The mirror equation is defined as 1/di + 1/do = 1/f, where di is the image distance, do is the object distance, and f is the focal length. It is established that the center of curvature is twice the focal length, leading to the conclusion that for an object at the center of curvature, the object distance (do) is 2f. Participants emphasize substituting 2f into the mirror equation to solve for the image distance (di).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the mirror equation (1/di + 1/do = 1/f)
  • Knowledge of concave mirrors and their properties
  • Familiarity with focal length and object distance concepts
  • Basic algebra skills for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the mirror equation in detail
  • Explore the relationship between focal length and object distance in concave mirrors
  • Learn about magnification in concave mirrors and its calculation
  • Investigate practical applications of concave mirrors in optics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those in Physics 11, educators teaching optics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of concave mirrors and their applications.

leehom
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Use the mirror equation to find the image location and the height of an object placed at the centre of curvature of a concave mirror. Also find the magnification. Hint: What is the relation between the focal length and the object distance, do, for this situation?

I'm really confused about this question... Can someone please help me?
 
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What's the mirror equation? (It's the same as the thin-lens equation)

What's the relationship between the center of curvature and the focal point?
 
centre of curvature is half the focal point and the mirror equation is 1/di + 1/do = 1/f
 
but i still don't understand how that answers the question..
 
I was answering your other thread.

Center of curvature is not half the focal length, it's the other way 'round.

Center of curvature is twice the focal length. So focal length is "f" and the object distance is "2f." Do a little algebra and find the image.
 
Would the focal length be equal to the object distance?
 
leehom said:
Would the focal length be equal to the object distance?

No, try again. You're close.

But I have to go now, keep at it.
 
Okay, thnx for your help
 
All you have to do is substitute 2f = do into the equation you listed above and solve for di.
 
Last edited:

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