Infinite Reflections: Explaining Mirror Physics

In summary, when two mirrors are facing each other, an object placed between them can be seen multiple times due to the reflection of light. This occurs because the light from the object forms multiple images as it is reflected by each mirror, creating an infinite number of images if the reflection is perfect. However, the reflection is not perfect and light energy is gradually lost, resulting in dark regions when looking at the mirrors. This can be seen in fitting rooms with two large mirrors, creating a potentially eerie experience.
  • #1
AaronGaTech
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When you use two mirrors facing each other, an object in between them can be seen ALOT of times. I understand why, but can really describe it in any detail. Can anybody explain with some depth why this happens.
 
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  • #2
It is because light is reflected A LOT of times :biggrin: Light from the object forms the 1st image when reflected by one mirror, then forms the 2nd image when reflected by the other mirror, and then the 3rd image, 4th image and so on are formed in the same way. You may understand it in another way: the object first forms 2 images via 2 mirrors; then the 2 images form another 2 "images of image", and then there are another 2 images formed, etc.

Theoretically, if the reflection is perfect, then you will have light reflected infinite times. In fact, light energy loses gradually on its path (the air and the mirrors do absorb light energy), so when you look at one of the two big mirrors, you will see some dark regions. It's kind of scary when standing between two big mirrors in the fitting room :uhh:
 

1. What is the concept of "infinite reflections" in mirror physics?

Infinite reflections refer to the phenomenon of light bouncing back and forth between two parallel mirrors, creating an infinite number of reflected images. This occurs due to the principle of reflection, where light rays bounce off a reflective surface at equal angles.

2. How does the angle of incidence affect infinite reflections?

The angle of incidence, which is the angle at which a light ray hits the reflective surface, determines the direction of the reflected ray. In the case of infinite reflections, the angle of incidence and the angle of reflection will always be equal, resulting in the light bouncing back and forth between the two mirrors.

3. What is the relationship between the distance between the mirrors and the number of reflections?

The distance between the mirrors directly affects the number of infinite reflections. The closer the mirrors are to each other, the more reflections will occur before the light dissipates. This is because the shorter distance means that the light will travel a shorter distance between each reflection, allowing for more reflections to occur.

4. How does the reflectivity of the mirrors impact infinite reflections?

The reflectivity of the mirrors also plays a role in infinite reflections. The more reflective the mirrors are, the longer the light will continue to bounce back and forth between them. This is because less light is absorbed by the mirrors, allowing for more reflections to occur before the light dissipates.

5. Can infinite reflections occur in other materials besides mirrors?

While infinite reflections are commonly observed in mirrors, they can also occur in other reflective materials such as water or glass. The same principles of reflection apply, where light bounces off the surfaces at equal angles. However, due to the imperfections in these materials, the reflections may not be as perfect and infinite as they are in mirrors.

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