Question

Which of the following statements are correct?
(A) All mirrors follow the laws of reflection.
(B) The angle between the ray of incidence and the plane surface of the mirror is equal to the angle between the plane surface of mirror and the ray of reflection for plane mirror
(C) the rays coming parallel to the principal axis will go after reflection through the focus of the curved mirror
(D) the rays coming to the pole of a curved mirror making an angle with axis will be reflected making the equal angle with the axis on the other side of the axis.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B), (C) and (D)
• B. (A), (C) and (D) only
• C. (A), (B) and (C) only
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only

Hint:

Be careful with the precise wording of laws and definitions in physics. The laws of reflection are formally defined using the angle to the normal. While the grazing angles (to the surface) are also equal as a consequence, a question might test your knowledge of the formal definition.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Conceptual Assessment:
This question evaluates the understanding of the fundamental laws and principles of reflection as applied to plane and curved mirrors by assessing the validity of each provided statement.

Step 2: Statement Analysis:
(A) Universal Applicability of Reflection Laws:
This statement asserts that all mirrors adhere to the laws of reflection, a cornerstone of geometric optics. The principles of reflection (angle of incidence equals angle of reflection, and the incident ray, reflected ray, and normal lie within the same plane) are universally applicable to any reflective surface, whether plane or curved. Thus, this statement is accurate.
(B) Reflection in Plane Mirrors:
This statement pertains to the angles formed during reflection in a plane mirror. Specifically, it states that the angle between the incident ray and the mirror's plane surface is equal to the angle between the mirror's plane surface and the reflected ray.
(C) Reflection of Parallel Rays in Curved Mirrors:
This statement indicates that rays parallel to the principal axis, after reflection from a curved mirror, will pass through the focal point. This is a standard rule in ray tracing and defines the principal focus for concave mirrors. For convex mirrors, parallel rays appear to diverge from a focal point located behind the mirror. While the wording "will go after reflection through the focus" is precise for concave mirrors, it is often generalized in introductory material. This principle is crucial for image formation and is generally considered valid within the context of ray diagram conventions.
(D) Reflection of Rays at the Pole of a Curved Mirror:
This statement describes the reflection of rays directed at the pole of a curved mirror. For any spherical mirror, the principal axis serves as the normal at the pole. Consequently, a ray incident at the pole will reflect according to the law of reflection, where the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection with respect to the principal axis. This statement is accurate.

Step 3: Conclusion:
Based on the established rules and definitions in ray optics, statements (A), (B), (C), and (D) are considered fundamental principles.