Multiple reflections in a mirror system

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the distance between two mirrors in a reflection system. Initially, a distance of 20 cm was proposed based on the first image's position, but an analytical method indicated 50 cm as the correct answer. Confusion arose regarding the number of reflections considered, with the realization that three reflections were involved, including one at the first mirror. The participants concluded that if there were no constraints on reflections, the initial logic could be valid. The exchange highlights the importance of accurately counting reflections in optical problems.
palaphys
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Homework Statement
A converging mirror M1, a point source S and a diverging
mirror M2 are arranged as shown in figure (18-E4). The
source is placed at a distance of 30 cm from M1. The
focal length of each of the mirrors is 20 cm. Consider
only the images formed by a maximum of two reflections.
It is found that one image is formed on the source itself.
(a) Find the distance between the two mirrors. (b) Find
the location of the image formed by the single reflection
from M2 .
Relevant Equations
1/v+1/u=1/f
1759678599042.webp

There is the figure provided.
I know how to approach this problem analytically, but before that I tried to use some logic-
Using mirror formula assuming the first reflection occurs at M1, we get that the first image is formed at a distance ##60 cm## from the pole of M1 to its left.
So, if this image was formed EXACTLY at center of curvature of the diverging mirror, then the angle of incidence would be equal to the angle of reflection, both equal to zero, as the rays would be incident normally, and the next image would be formed at S again.
Here's a diagram of what I mean:
1759679104061.webp

so from here we can say that the distance between the mirrors would be ##20cm##, right? but the analytical method yields a solution as ##50cm## which is the correct ans.

Thinking further, why can't the distance between the mirrors be ##60 cm## itself? If the image from the first reflection of M1 is formed at the pole of M2, then the reflected rays will pass symmetrically as shown, leading to the image and object coinciding as shown in the figure:
1759679643519.webp


But why is this wrong as well?
 

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How many reflections are you considering?
 
TSny said:
How many reflections are you considering?
for the image to be formed, 2
 
palaphys said:
for the image to be formed, 2
Your diagrams appear to show 3 reflections before the rays form an image at S.
 
TSny said:
Your diagrams appear to show 3 reflections before the rays form an image at S.
oh I forgot to count the reflection at M1. so this is the mistake in my solution.
However if there were no constraints on the number of reflections, then would this be correct?
 
palaphys said:
oh I forgot to count the reflection at M1. so this is the mistake in my solution.
Good.
palaphys said:
However if there were no constraints on the number of reflections, then would this be correct?
Yes, I think so. Your two different graphical solutions with three reflections are very insightful!
 
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