Properties of Image Formed by Plane Mirror
The image formed by a plane mirror has distinct characteristics. Below are the main properties explained in detail:
1. Nature of the Image
- The image is virtual, meaning it cannot be projected on a screen.
- It appears to be behind the mirror at a distance equal to the object distance.
2. Orientation
- The image is erect, meaning it has the same orientation as the object.
- For instance, if the object is upright, the image will also be upright.
3. Size of the Image
- The size of the image is equal to the size of the object.
- This means that if an object is 5 cm tall, the image will also be 5 cm tall.
4. Distance from the Mirror
- The distance of the image from the mirror is equal to the distance of the object from the mirror.
- If you stand 2 meters away from the mirror, the image will also appear to be 2 meters away.
5. Lateral Inversion
- The image undergoes lateral inversion, meaning the left and right sides are swapped.
- For instance, if you raise your right hand, the image in the mirror appears to raise its left hand.
6. Reflection Law
- The image formation follows the law of reflection, which states that the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.
These properties help us understand how plane mirrors work and how they create images that we observe in our daily lives. Understanding these concepts is fundamental in the study of optics.