Optics: Find n for Proportionality of Concave Mirror Image to R^n

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between the size of the image formed by a concave mirror and the radius of curvature, specifically exploring the proportionality expressed as R^n. Participants are attempting to determine the value of n and clarify the conditions under which this relationship holds.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the proportionality of image size to R^n, with some suggesting that the size is dependent on both R and object distance. Others are exploring the implications of placing the object at an infinite distance and discussing the resulting magnification.

Discussion Status

There are various interpretations being explored regarding the relationship between image size and radius of curvature. Some participants have offered equations and reasoning, while others have pointed out potential errors in the dimensional analysis of the equations presented. The discussion remains active with no explicit consensus reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating constraints such as the conditions under which the object is placed relative to the mirror and the implications of assuming certain distances are negligible. There is also mention of a textbook answer that suggests n=1, which is being debated.

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The size of image formed by a concave mirror is proportional to R^n where R is radius of curvature. Find n.
Cannot understand how to proceed. Need help.
 
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It's not. The size of the image is a function of R and the distance between the object and the mirror. Even for a fixed object distance the size of the image is a function of R but not proportional to R.
 
Ok thnx...but what if the object is at infinite position??
...btw answer given in the book is 1
n=1
 
DriggyBoy said:
Ok thnx...but what if the object is at infinite position??
...btw answer given in the book is 1
n=1

That's right. For the object distance >> R the answer is proportional to R1. But not R = ∞ since then the image size is zero unless it's also infinite in size!

So, to continue:

1. what is the simple equation relating object o and image i distances, and the radius R?
2. what is the expression for magnification?
3. what is #2 when o >> R?
 
Last edited:
Cannot proceed... 1/v + 1/u = R/2
Now can we omit 1/u cause its too small?
Then eqn bcums v=2/R...from this it is clear that image is at focus
Now what ?
 
Btw i think i proceeded a bit further...Now magnification is very small...
Now size of image/size of object = magnification(very small)
or, size of image = magnification * size of object
or, k(R^n) = magn * size of objct
or, magn = { k(R^n) } / Size of objct
This magn is very small, for it to be very small, n needs to be least...therefore n = 1
Is that it?
 
DriggyBoy said:
Cannot proceed... 1/v + 1/u = R/2

Your equation is dimensionally incorrect. Which means it is incorrect. Fix it!
 

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