Question

Draw a ray diagram to show the path of the reflected ray in each of the following cases:
A ray of light incident on a convex mirror
1.parallel to its principal axis,
2. directed towards its principal focus.

Answer 1

Step 1: Incident Ray Parallel to Principal Axis:
A ray incident parallel to the principal axis of a convex mirror reflects as if diverging from the principal focus (F).
- The reflected ray appears to originate from the focal point.

Step 2: Incident Ray Towards Principal Focus:
A ray directed towards the principal focus of a convex mirror reflects parallel to the principal axis.
- The reflected ray is parallel to the principal axis.

Step 3: Conclusion:
In both scenarios, reflected rays do not converge to form a real image. Convex mirrors produce virtual, erect, and diminished images. The reflected rays appear to originate from a point behind the mirror (the virtual focus).
These principles are illustrated in ray diagrams.