Mirror Box & Daylight: What Happens?

In summary: Wouldn't the photon give up energy with each reflection?Yes, the photon would lose some energy each time it was reflected. This is why you see a decrease in brightness when looking at something that is being reflected multiple times.
  • #1
Juel
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0
If you had box where the inside was lined with mirrors and you closed the box in daylight, would inside of the box contain the light and be lit up? (Assuming no light was absorbed the edges or elsewhere).
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF!

Hi Juel! Welcome to PF! :smile:

Yes, the light that was inside when you closed it would bounce around for ever (if it wasn't absorbed), and come out again when you re-opened the box.
 
  • #3
When light is reflected, I think it is actually absorbed and re-emitted by the surface, so your stipulation that it is not absorbed might need to be adjusted to say that all the light is totally reflected.
It would have to a pretty special conditions type of box; if it was about a meter across the number of reflections for a single ray of light would be around 300 million times per second.

Even if you could construct and isolate a box system that you thought might be able to support the on going reflection for a few minutes or hours, another question pops up... How would you propose verifying it? Any device - your eye, a camera, or other kind of photo-detector will operate by absorbing light. If you did have a box of light, how would you be able to tell?
 
  • #4
this question comes up here every couple of months or so, so a forum search might turn up some discussion you would find interesting, although the previous 2 have pretty much said what's important.
 
  • #5


tiny-tim said:
Hi Juel! Welcome to PF! :smile:

Yes, the light that was inside when you closed it would bounce around for ever (if it wasn't absorbed), and come out again when you re-opened the box.

What about the Compton effect?
 
  • #6
2112rush2112 said:
What about the Compton effect?

what about it? :confused:
 
  • #7
tiny-tim said:
what about it? :confused:

Wouldn't the photon give up energy with each reflection?
 

FAQ: Mirror Box & Daylight: What Happens?

What is a mirror box and how does it work?

A mirror box is a device used in psychology and neuroscience experiments to study the perception of body image and the brain's ability to process sensory information. It typically consists of two mirrors placed at a 90-degree angle, creating a virtual image of the hand or limb inside the box. This creates an illusion of the affected limb being in a different position or having different sensations, allowing researchers to study the brain's response to these changes.

Can the mirror box be used to treat conditions such as phantom limb pain?

Yes, mirror box therapy has been used to treat phantom limb pain, a condition where individuals experience pain in a limb that has been amputated. By using the mirror box to create the illusion of the missing limb, it can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with the condition. This therapy has also been used for other conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome and stroke rehabilitation.

How does daylight affect the brain's perception when using a mirror box?

Daylight can have a significant impact on the brain's perception when using a mirror box. Studies have shown that natural light can enhance the effectiveness of mirror therapy by improving the brain's ability to process visual information. Additionally, exposure to daylight has been linked to improved mood and cognitive function, which can also contribute to the success of mirror therapy.

Are there any risks or side effects associated with using a mirror box?

In general, mirror therapy is considered safe and does not have any significant risks or side effects. However, some individuals may experience mild discomfort or disorientation when first using the mirror box. It is essential to follow the instructions of a trained therapist to ensure proper use and avoid any potential adverse effects.

How can mirror box and daylight therapy be used in other areas of research?

Mirror box and daylight therapy have shown potential in a variety of research areas, including body image perception, pain management, and stroke rehabilitation. It has also been used in studies on the brain's response to visual illusions and the impact of natural light on cognitive function. Further research is ongoing to explore the potential applications of this therapy in other areas of neuroscience and psychology.

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