Question

“The linear magnification produced by a spherical mirror is +3.”Based on this statement answer the following questions:
(a) What is the type of mirror?
(b) Where is the object located?
(c) List two properties of the image formed (other than the size/magnification).

Answer 1

Step 1: Magnification Definition
Magnification (M) = Image height / Object height.
- Positive M: Erect and virtual image.
- Negative M: Inverted and real image.

Given: M = +3.
This implies the image is 3 times the object's size, erect, and virtual.

Step 2: Mirror Identification
- Only a concave mirror can form a virtual and magnified image.
- Convex mirrors produce diminished, erect, virtual images.
Therefore, the mirror is concave.

Step 3: Object Placement
For a concave mirror to produce a virtual, erect, and magnified image, the object must be placed between the pole (P) and the focus (F).

Step 4: Image Characteristics (excluding magnification)
1. Virtual: Cannot be projected onto a screen.
2. Erect: Upright relative to the object.

Final Answers:
(a) Concave mirror
(b) Between the pole and the focus
(c) Virtual and erect