Two lines were drawn, each parallel to the axis, with one about 2 cm above and t

Question

Two lines were drawn, each parallel to the axis, with one about 2 cm above and the other about 2 cm below the axis. The mirror was placed back on the tracing. The laser was shone along the parallel lines so the light streak along the paper could be seen and reflected off the mirror. The laser reflection path was traced. A ruler was used to extend the reflected laser beam pathway until they crossed. The intersection is the focal point of the mirror. This was marked as f1 on the diagram. This process was repeated for the convex side of the mirror. This focal point was marked as f2 on the diagram. Measure the distance from the mirror surface at the center axis to the center of curvature, and the two focal points and record your answers in data table 6 below. Would focal point 1 create a real or virtual image? Would the image be bigger, equal to, or smaller than the object? Would focal point 2 create a real or virtual image? Would the image be bigger, equal to, or smaller than the object?. It may help to look at your reflection in the mirror and describe what you see.

Explanation / Answer

the laser is shown parallel to the principal axis, so it should pass through the focus of the mirror
from the readings
Center of curvature,R = 6 mm
concave focal point, f1 = 2.5 mm
convex focal point, f2 = 2.5 mm

so, theoretical focal points are f1t = f2t = R/2 = 3mm

for f1 < 3 mm
the object is inside the focal point, so the image formed by concave mnirror is virtual but enlarged
for f2 < 3 mm
the object is inside the focal point, so the image formed by convex mirror is virtual but diminished

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