Centre of curvature of a mirror and the perpendicular

In summary, the centre of curvature of a mirror is the point at which the reflected rays converge or appear to diverge from. It can be determined by extending the reflected rays back to a point or by measuring the radius of curvature. This point is different from the focal point, which is where parallel rays of light converge or appear to diverge from. The distance from an object to the centre of curvature affects the size and orientation of the image produced by a concave mirror. Additionally, the concept of perpendicularity is related to the centre of curvature as the principal axis, which passes through it, is always perpendicular to the mirror's surface.
  • #1
shihab-kol
119
8
If the normal is always 90 to the mirror can we assume that it always passes through centre of curvature?
The light rays passing through the centre are reflected back in the same direction as angle of incidence is 0
and incident angle is 90
so, the normal should pass through the centre.
 
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  • #2
If the mirror is spherical it will pass through centre
 

FAQ: Centre of curvature of a mirror and the perpendicular

1. What is the centre of curvature of a mirror?

The centre of curvature of a mirror is the point at which all the reflected rays converge or appear to diverge from. It is located on the principal axis, which is a line passing through the centre of the mirror and perpendicular to its surface.

2. How is the centre of curvature determined for a convex mirror?

For a convex mirror, the centre of curvature is located behind the mirror, as the reflected rays appear to diverge from this point. It can be determined by extending the reflected rays back to a point, or by measuring the radius of curvature (distance from the mirror to the centre of curvature) using a ruler or measuring tape.

3. Is the centre of curvature the same as the focal point of a mirror?

No, the centre of curvature and the focal point are not the same. The focal point is located on the principal axis, halfway between the mirror and the centre of curvature. It is where parallel rays of light converge or appear to diverge from after reflecting off the mirror.

4. How does the distance from an object to the centre of curvature affect the image produced by a concave mirror?

The distance from an object to the centre of curvature affects the size of the image produced by a concave mirror. If the object is placed beyond the centre of curvature, the image will be smaller and inverted. If the object is placed between the centre of curvature and the mirror, the image will be larger and inverted. If the object is placed at the centre of curvature, the image will be the same size and inverted.

5. How is the concept of perpendicularity related to the centre of curvature of a mirror?

The concept of perpendicularity is related to the centre of curvature in that the principal axis, which passes through the centre of curvature, is always perpendicular to the mirror's surface. This is important in determining the angle of incidence and angle of reflection for reflected rays, as these angles are equal when the incident ray is perpendicular to the mirror's surface.

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