Troubleshooting Convex Mirror: Image Distance & Magnification

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on troubleshooting image distance and magnification for a convex mirror. The user initially struggled with calculating the image distance (i) and lateral magnification (m) for an object distance (p) of +8.3 cm and a focal length (f) of -13 cm. Key insights include the necessity of using a negative focal length for convex mirrors and the importance of ray diagrams to visualize light paths. Ultimately, the user confirmed that the image is virtual, upright, and located behind the mirror.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of spherical mirrors and their properties
  • Knowledge of image distance (i) and lateral magnification (m) calculations
  • Familiarity with ray diagrams for optical systems
  • Concept of real vs. virtual images
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of convex mirrors and their focal lengths
  • Learn how to construct ray diagrams for convex mirrors
  • Explore the mathematical relationships for image distance and magnification in optics
  • Review the differences between real and virtual images in optical systems
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone seeking to understand the properties and calculations associated with convex mirrors.

mr_coffee
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Hello everyone, I seem to be getting all the mirrors right that where concave but now i have a convex one and it doesn't seem to be working when im' finding the image distance and magnification/properties.

Here is the problem:
Object O stands on the central axis of a spherical mirror. The table gives object distance p, the type of mirror, and focal distance f. Find the image distance i and the lateral magnification m of the object, including signs.

p (cm) Mirror f (cm) i (cm) m
+8.3 convex *13 wrong check mark wrong check mark
* sign not given

Heres my work: both the i and the m where wrong, i also tried positive values for the i and it was also wrong.
http://suprfile.com/src/1/69p5rx/lastscan.jpg I did get the last part of the question right though, i said it was going to be
upright, behind the mirror and virtual
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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First off, you haven't drawn a picture! Ray diagrams are very useful in these types of problems. The tricky part of lenses is making sure that all your signs are correct. For this type of mirror, I believe the focal length is negative. Do you understand what the difference is between a real and a virtual image? Do you understand what is meant by the focal length? The diagram will be helpful. Draw a convex mirror with an object in front, then draw the light-rays coming off the object and see where they go after bouncing off the mirror. Plugging and chugging won't help you understand the concepts, and a good understanding of the concepts is the key to tricky test questions.
 
Thanks again Eep! I forgot all about convex mirros, the focal length is always negative u treat it as a diverging lens i guess! It wokred! wee!
 

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