The Mirror Question: What Changes in Physics?

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The discussion centers on the nature of mirror reflections and the misconception that mirrors reverse images. Participants clarify that mirrors do not actually reverse images but create a visual effect that appears "backwards" due to familiarity with how people are oriented. The conversation emphasizes that this phenomenon is more about psychological perception than physical laws. Ultimately, the inquiry into what changes in physics if mirrors reflected images without this effect is deemed irrelevant, as the issue lies in human perception rather than physics itself. The participants conclude that understanding this distinction is key to addressing the original question.
mesaphlin
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Hello Everyone,

I was just thinking about a question about mirrors and this specific question has been making me thinking about it for a long time and I still couldn't find the answer.

The question is simply about mirrors.

A mirror reflects images that are significantly altered by being backwards - this is the known fact.

My question is that what changes in overall laws of physics if mirrors reflect the images without being backwards?

I hope I made my question clear.
 
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mesaphlin said:
A mirror reflects images that are significantly altered by being backwards
Not backwards, just mirrored.

mesaphlin said:
My question is that what changes in overall laws of physics if mirrors reflect the images without being backwards?
If something doesn't mirror the image, then it is not a mirror. Nothing to do with physics.
 
okay - thanks
 
mesaphlin said:
Hello Everyone,

I was just thinking about a question about mirrors and this specific question has been making me thinking about it for a long time and I still couldn't find the answer.

The question is simply about mirrors.

A mirror reflects images that are significantly altered by being backwards - this is the known fact.
No, that is NOT a "known fact". It is a "common misconception".
If you walk up to a person and, say, shake hands, your right side is on his left side, your left side is on his right side. To shake each other's right hand, you have to have to reach across your body. He is 'backwards' (reversed would be a better word) to you.

When you look into a mirror, that does not happen- the image is NOT "backwards" but appears to be "wrong" because you are used to seeing people "backwards".

My question is that what changes in overall laws of physics if mirrors reflect the images without being backwards?

I hope I made my question clear.
It is not a matter of physics, it is a matter of psychology.
 
HallsofIvy said:
No, that is NOT a "known fact". It is a "common misconception".
If you walk up to a person and, say, shake hands, your right side is on his left side, your left side is on his right side. To shake each other's right hand, you have to have to reach across your body. He is 'backwards' (reversed would be a better word) to you.

When you look into a mirror, that does not happen- the image is NOT "backwards" but appears to be "wrong" because you are used to seeing people "backwards".


It is not a matter of physics, it is a matter of psychology.

I understand it now. Thank you so much.
 
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