Why is it Difficult to Manufacture Parabolic Mirrors?

[bomba923]

Spherical mirrors, no problem, are easier to manufacture. But

*WHY*

is it difficult to manufacture/produce a parabolic mirror?

e.g., something like parabolic reflector with a focus about a meter from the vertex,
and about half a meter in diameter?

 

[pallidin]

Spherical mirrors have a constant curvature. During manufacture and finished polishing, it makes things simple.
Parabolic mirrors do not have a constant curvature, and though this differential curvature is easy to mathematically define, the manufacture and polishing can be tricky and expensive(depending on the "tolerance" of perfection desired)

 

[ravenprp]

There are a few reasons why it is more difficult to manufacture parabolic mirrors compared to spherical mirrors.

Firstly, the shape of a parabolic mirror is much more complex and precise than that of a spherical mirror. A spherical mirror has a uniform curvature, while a parabolic mirror has a varying curvature that must follow a specific mathematical equation in order to achieve the desired focal point. This requires a high level of precision and control in the manufacturing process, which can be challenging and time-consuming.

Secondly, the size and dimensions of a parabolic mirror also present challenges in the manufacturing process. As mentioned in the example, a parabolic reflector with a focus of about a meter and a diameter of half a meter would require a large and precise mold or tooling to create the desired shape. This adds complexity and cost to the manufacturing process.

Moreover, the materials used to make parabolic mirrors must also be carefully selected and handled. The reflective surface of a parabolic mirror must be highly reflective and durable enough to maintain its shape over time. This often requires specialized coatings and materials, which can add to the difficulty and cost of manufacturing.

Lastly, the demand for parabolic mirrors is relatively low compared to spherical mirrors, which means there may be fewer manufacturers with the expertise and equipment to produce them. This can make it more difficult to find a reliable and experienced manufacturer, further adding to the challenges in producing parabolic mirrors.

In conclusion, the complex shape, size, and materials required for parabolic mirrors make them more difficult to manufacture compared to spherical mirrors. However, their unique properties and applications make them a crucial component in various industries, making the effort and investment in manufacturing them worthwhile.