Rear view mirror and field of view

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a bus driver using a plane mirror to view the rear window of a bus. The mirror's dimensions and its distance from the driver, as well as the distance to the rear window, are provided. The focus is on determining the length of the rear window visible to the driver through the mirror.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the importance of visualizing the problem through diagrams and the relationship of angles and similar triangles. Some express uncertainty about how to start the problem and whether calculation methods are applicable.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants suggesting that drawing a diagram could clarify the problem. There is recognition that visual aids may assist in understanding the layout, but no consensus on a specific approach has been reached.

Contextual Notes

One participant indicates difficulty in visualizing the problem, which may affect their ability to engage with the mathematical aspects. The discussion reflects a mix of approaches, with some leaning towards geometric interpretation and others considering calculation methods.

Punch
Messages
44
Reaction score
0
A bus driver looks into a plane mirror 20 cm long which is placed 50 cm in front of him. If the rear window is 500 cm from the plane mirror, through what length of the rear window can he see whenever he looks into the mirror while driving?




I have thought about this question but am really stucked. I don't know where to begin the question or how to..
 
Physics news on Phys.org


Draw a (scaled) diagram, it's all about what range of angles can hit the mirror - just a question of similair triangles
 


is there no other way such as calculating it?
 


You can calculate it once you understand the layout - that's where the diagram helps
 


In short, i have to draw the diagram..
 


Hello Punch,

While it may be possible to for some of us to visualise this problem mentally, you have said that you are finding it very difficult.

Even a rough drawing should help you to understand it better, and a more accurate scaled drawing would also let you make an approximate check on your calculation.
 

Similar threads

Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
Replies
2
Views
10K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
3K