The size of the image of the Sun

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the size of the image of the Sun formed by a concave mirror with a focal length of 20 cm. The relevant equations include the mirror formula 1/u + 1/v = 1/f and the magnification formula magnification = v/u = l2/l1. The initial approach incorrectly assumes the size of the Sun and its distance as infinite, leading to a magnification of zero. The correct method involves considering the angular magnification based on the angle subtended by the Sun at the mirror.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of concave mirrors and their properties
  • Familiarity with the mirror formula (1/u + 1/v = 1/f)
  • Knowledge of magnification concepts in optics
  • Basic trigonometry to relate angles and distances
NEXT STEPS
  • Study angular magnification in optics
  • Learn about the properties of concave mirrors
  • Explore the concept of image formation in spherical mirrors
  • Investigate the relationship between angle subtended and image size
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding image formation using concave mirrors.

Akash47
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Homework Statement


The focal length of a concave mirror is f=20 cm. It is directed towards the sun and the sun makes an angle= 1° at the pole of the mirror. What is the size of the image of the sun?

Homework Equations


1/u +1/v =1/f ...(i) ,magnification= v/u= l2/l1 where l1 =size of the sun,l2 =size of image of the sun.

The Attempt at a Solution


Here,u=∞(as the light comes from a very large distance),so from (i),v= f =20 cm.So v/u= 20/∞ =0=l2 /l1,from that, l2=0 or l1=∞.But which is right?Also I can't make a relation with the given angle.This is all what I have done.Please point out the mistake in my approach and also give hints to carry it out.
 
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Akash47 said:
magnification= v/u
This is not useful here. Just as the distance to the sun is effectively infinite, so is its size, so the magnification in this sense is zero. You need instead to look at the ratio of the angles (angular magnification).
Instead of saying the sun is at infinity, just let u and l1 be very large. In terms of those, what angle does the sun subtend on Earth?
 

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