3.
Based on the image that is formed, what kind of reflection is produced by a plane mirror?
The image formed is clear and undistorted. Hence, this is an example of regular reflection.
4.
Compare the labels ‘L’ and ‘R’ on the coloured paper with that of its image in the mirror.
Each label is laterally inverted. The letters ‘L’ and ‘R’ are interchanged in the image.
Extension
1.
Repeat the experiment using a convex mirror instead of a plane mirror. What can you observe
about the image formed in the convex mirror?
The image formed is smaller than the object. Also, the distance of the image from the convex mirror is
greater than the distance of the object from the mirror.
2.
(a) Instead of plane mirrors, convex mirrors are more commonly used to make side mirrors
of cars. Suggest a possible reason for this.
A convex mirror would give a wider field of vision than plane mirrors. Hence, drivers will be able to
get a better view of the road behind their cars.
(b) Suggest a possible problem that might result from using convex mirrors as side mirrors
of cars.
The object is closer than it appears in a convex mirror. Hence, the driver might miscalculate the
distance between vehicles. This might cause accidents on the road.
3.
Explain how concave mirrors are used in the headlights of cars.
A small bulb shines rays of light onto the concave mirror. The light rays from the bulb are then reflected
off the concave mirror as a parallel light beam. The parallel light beam shines onto the road in front of
the car. Hence, the driver can see better in a dark environment.
© 2013 Marshall Cavendish International (Singapore) Private Limited
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