How Do Rearview Mirrors Affect Image Size?

[jena]

Hi,

Question

Some rearvier mirrors produce images of cars behind you that are smaller than they would be if the mirror were flat. Are the mirrors concave or convex? What is the mirror's radius of curvature if cars 20.0 m away appear 0.33x their normal size.

My Answers

The mirrors are concave.

f=r/2

f=(20*.33)/2
f=3.3 m

Is this correct?

Thank you

 

[Chi Meson]

the mirrors are NOT concave. What's your next guess?

ANd no, your math is not correct.
Use the magnification equation to find the image distance.
Use the "thin lens" equation (it's the same for mirrors) to find the focal length.
then proceed.

 

[quicknote]

Yes, your answer is correct. The mirrors are concave and the radius of curvature can be calculated using the formula f = r/2, where f is the focal length and r is the radius of curvature. In this case, the focal length is 3.3 m, which means that the radius of curvature is twice that, or 6.6 m. This means that the mirror is curved with a radius of 6.6 m, giving it a concave shape. The smaller size of the images of cars behind you is due to the reflection of light rays from the curved surface of the mirror, which causes the image to appear smaller than it would in a flat mirror. This is a common phenomenon in concave mirrors and is utilized in various applications, such as in telescopes and magnifying glasses. I hope this helps clarify the concept for you. Keep up the good work!