Optics - spherical and plane mirror

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a convex spherical mirror with a specified focal length and a plane mirror, with an object placed between them. The task is to determine the positions and heights of the images formed by the spherical mirror, considering the interactions between the two mirrors.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the mirror equation and the process of determining image positions. There is uncertainty regarding the correct use of distances from the mirrors and the order of reflections. Some participants question how to approach the calculation of images formed by the spherical mirror and the implications of reflections from the plane mirror.

Discussion Status

There is ongoing exploration of the problem, with participants attempting to clarify the setup and the relationships between the mirrors. Some guidance has been offered regarding the need to consider the order of reflections and the distances involved, but no consensus has been reached on the correct approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the complexity of multiple reflections and the need to identify which images are formed by the spherical mirror specifically. There is also mention of the potential confusion regarding the measurements and the sequence of reflections between the two mirrors.

asteeves_
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Homework Statement



A convex spherical mirror with a focal length of magnitude 24.0 cm is placed 22.0 cm to the left of a plane mirror. An object 0.300 cm tall is placed midway between the surface of the plane mirror and the vertex of the spherical mirror. The spherical mirror forms multiple images of the object.

-Where are the two images of the object formed by the spherical mirror that are closest to the spherical mirror?

-How tall is each image?

Homework Equations



(1) 1/f=1/s+1/s'
(2) y'/y = -s'/s

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
Using initial conditions and equation 1 I solved for the first s' (=-7.54), my next thought was to use this number in place of s and solve again for s' since the reflection off the plane mirrior will land right back where it was originally, however I am not getting the correct answer and am unsure what else to do.
 
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asteeves_ said:
use this number in place of s and solve again for s' since the reflection off the plane mirrior will land right back where it was originally,
Not sure exactly what you are saying. s and s' are measured from the convex mirror, right? The image in the plane mirror should involve the distance to the plane mirror.
Also need to consider order of reflections, plane mirror first or convex first.
 
haruspex said:
Not sure exactly what you are saying. s and s' are measured from the convex mirror, right? The image in the plane mirror should involve the distance to the plane mirror.
Also need to consider order of reflections, plane mirror first or convex first.
How exactly do you determine the order of reflection?
 
asteeves_ said:
How exactly do you determine the order of reflection?
Both orders will occur, and multiple images for each order as the light bounces back and forth between the mirrors.
Of all these, you are asked for the two images which a) involve at least one reflection in the spherical mirror and b) are nearest that mirror.
 

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