To construct a ray diagram we use two light rays which are so chosen t...
To construct a ray diagram we use two light rays which are so chosen t...
Constructing a Ray Diagram for a Concave Mirror
Two Rays Used in Ray Diagram:
1. A ray parallel to the principal axis and passing through the focus.
- After reflection, this ray passes through the centre of curvature of the mirror.
2. A ray passing through the centre of curvature of the mirror.
- After reflection, this ray retraces its path and passes through the centre of curvature again.
Locating the Image:
1. Draw a concave mirror and mark its principal axis.
2. Mark the centre of curvature (C) and focus (F) on the principal axis.
3. Draw an object (AB) between C and F on the principal axis.
4. From point A, draw a ray parallel to the principal axis and passing through F.
- After reflection, this ray passes through point C.
5. From point A, draw a ray passing through point C.
- After reflection, this ray retraces its path and passes through point C again.
6. The intersection of these two rays (at point A') gives the position of the image.
7. From point B, draw a ray passing through point C.
- After reflection, this ray retraces its path and passes through point C again.
8. From point B, draw a ray at an angle towards the mirror such that it is parallel to the principal axis after reflection.
9. The intersection of these two rays (at point B') gives the size and orientation of the image.
Explanation:
A ray diagram is a graphical representation of how rays of light interact with an optical device, in this case, a concave mirror. The two rays used in constructing a ray diagram for a concave mirror are chosen based on their simplicity in determining their directions after reflection. The first ray is drawn parallel to the principal axis and passing through the focus. After reflection, this ray passes through the centre of curvature of the mirror. The second ray is drawn passing through the centre of curvature of the mirror. After reflection, this ray retraces its path and passes through the centre of curvature again. By finding the intersection of these two rays after reflection, the position, size, and orientation of the image formed by the concave mirror can be determined.
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