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Reflection of light - mirrors. Behavior of light using mirrors:. Rays of light hitting a flat mirror reflect in the same direction. However, rays of light hitting a curved mirror reflect in different directions. There are two types of mirrors: concave and convex . Concave mirrors.
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Behavior of light using mirrors: • Rays of light hitting a flat mirror reflect in the same direction. • However, rays of light hitting a curved mirror reflect in different directions. • There are two types of mirrors: concave and convex.
Concave mirrors • Concave mirrors are curved inward toward the center (like an entrance to a “cave” or the inside of a spoon). • The rays of light hitting a concave mirror move toward each other, crossing over each other and then move apart again. • The point at which the rays meet is called the focal point of the mirror.
Images in Concave mirrors: • If you are standing far away from a concave mirror, your image appears to be upside down and smaller. • If you are standing inside the focal point, your image appears to be right-side up and much larger than normal.
Examples of concave mirrors: • Used in vehicle headlights • Used by doctors to focus light into ears, throat, etc. • Used in make up mirrors • Focus light for heating purposes • Used by dentists to see teeth in back of mouth clearly
Convex mirrors • Convex mirrors are curved outward, like the bottom of a spoon. • When light rays hit the surface of a convex mirror, the light rays move away from each other. • Your image appears smaller than you really are and is right-side up.
Examples of convex mirrors: • Used around corners of buildings • Used in sunglasses • Passenger side door mirror • Used at ATMs for protection • Two placed back to back make a magnifying glass