Plane Mirrors

Plane mirrors are flat, smooth surfaces that reflect light. When light rays strike a plane mirror, they are reflected in such a way that the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection. This means that the reflected image appears to be as far behind the mirror as the object is in front of it, and the image is the same size as the object.

Characteristics of Plane Mirrors

• Reflection: Light is reflected off the surface of a plane mirror at the same angle as it strikes the mirror.
• Virtual Image: The image formed by a plane mirror is virtual, meaning it cannot be projected onto a screen. It only appears to be behind the mirror.
• Laterally Inverted: The image formed by a plane mirror is laterally inverted, meaning it appears reversed from left to right compared to the object.
• Size of Image: The size of the image formed by a plane mirror is the same as the size of the object.

Uses of Plane Mirrors

Plane mirrors have various practical applications, including:

• Household mirrors
• Car rear-view mirrors
• Periscopes
• Optical instruments
• Decorative purposes

Study Guide

To understand plane mirrors better, here are some key points to focus on:

1. Definition of a plane mirror
2. Reflection of light by a plane mirror
3. Angle of incidence and angle of reflection
4. Formation of virtual images
5. Properties of images formed by plane mirrors
6. Practical applications of plane mirrors

It's important to practice drawing ray diagrams to understand how light reflects off plane mirrors and how virtual images are formed. Additionally, conducting simple experiments with plane mirrors can help reinforce the concepts learned.

Remember to review the specific characteristics and uses of plane mirrors to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic.