Math Problem Statement

Which of the following is true about a convex mirror. (1 point) A light ray parallel to the principal axis seems to come from the center of curvature after reflection. A light ray directed the center of the mirror is reflected in its own path. A light ray directed towards the center of curvature is reflected in its own path. The focal point of a convex mirror is real. A light ray directed towards the focal point is reflected in its own path.

Solution

Let's analyze each statement to determine which is true about a convex mirror:

  1. A light ray parallel to the principal axis seems to come from the center of curvature after reflection.

    • False. For a convex mirror, a light ray parallel to the principal axis appears to diverge from the focal point, not the center of curvature.
  2. A light ray directed at the center of the mirror is reflected in its own path.

    • False. A light ray directed at the center of the mirror is reflected according to the law of reflection, where the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection, but it is not necessarily reflected in its own path.
  3. A light ray directed towards the center of curvature is reflected in its own path.

    • False. This statement is true for a concave mirror but not for a convex mirror.
  4. The focal point of a convex mirror is real.

    • False. The focal point of a convex mirror is virtual because the reflected rays diverge and only appear to come from a common point behind the mirror.
  5. A light ray directed towards the focal point is reflected in its own path.

    • False. This statement is also incorrect because for a convex mirror, a light ray directed towards the focal point would appear to diverge after reflection.

Given the statements, none of them accurately describe the behavior of light rays with a convex mirror.

However, if we had to choose the one that is closest to a true statement, it would be:

  • A light ray parallel to the principal axis seems to come from the center of curvature after reflection.
    • This is the closest but not entirely correct. The correct statement should be that it seems to come from the focal point.

Summary

None of the provided statements are entirely correct about the behavior of light rays with a convex mirror. However, the first statement is closest, though it should refer to the focal point rather than the center of curvature.


Do you want details or have any questions?

Here are some related questions for further exploration:

  1. What is the focal length of a convex mirror?
  2. How do you determine the image location formed by a convex mirror?
  3. What are the characteristics of the image formed by a convex mirror?
  4. How does the size of the object affect the image in a convex mirror?
  5. How can you use the mirror equation for a convex mirror?
  6. What is the difference between a real and a virtual focal point?
  7. How do convex mirrors benefit in practical applications such as vehicle mirrors?
  8. What is the relationship between the radius of curvature and the focal length in convex mirrors?

Tip: Always remember that convex mirrors diverge light rays, which makes the focal point virtual and located behind the mirror.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Optics
Geometric Optics

Formulas

Mirror Formula

Theorems

Law of Reflection

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12