Physics Year 1

SECTION

4
MIRRORS,
REFLECTION AND
REFRACTION
SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

ENERGY
Waves

INTRODUCTION
Welcome to this section where you shall use diagrammatic skills and mathematics
to find the nature of images produced in plane mirrors. Make sure that you are
careful with the construction of your diagrams, and that you seek the help of a
teacher or peer if you aren’t sure how to complete your sketch or use a protractor
accurately!
You shall explore the phenomenon of the reflection of light in two different types
of spherical mirrors, the convex mirror and the concave mirror. You will focus
on ray diagrams and their formation of fascinating images. You will gain hands-
on experience in understanding the properties of these mirrors, the important
relationship between focal length and radius of curvature for spherical mirrors,
and the formation of ray diagrams.
You will further explore light interactions with mirrors and different media, using
the mirror formula, to predict image formation and the magnification formula
to determine image size, whether they are enlarged, diminished, upright, or
inverted. You will also delve into the laws of refraction, including Snell’s Law,
to understand light’s direction and motion. By experimenting with angles and
media, you will see light change direction and understand the science behind it.

At the end of this section, you should be able to;

· Deduce the laws of reflection.

· Describe the processes involved in image formation in plane mirrors and
their characteristics.
· Determine the number of images formed by inclined mirrors.
· Explain the terminologies associated with spherical mirrors.
· Describe the processes involved in image formation in spherical mirrors
and their characteristics using ray tracing.
· Determine the position and characteristics of images formed by spherical
mirrors with mirror formula and magnification formula.

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· Explain refraction and state the laws of refraction.

Key ideas:

· Reflection is the phenomenon of light rays bouncing back when they

encounter a smooth, highly polished, or shiny surface. Very reflective
surfaces are often called mirrors.
· When two mirrors are placed at an angle (θ) with respect to each other,
multiple images can be formed due to the repeated reflection of light
between the mirrors.
· Spherical mirrors are mirrors with surfaces that are part of a sphere.
These mirrors can either be concave (inward-curved) or convex (outward-
curved). They reflect light in specific ways due to their curved surfaces,
making them useful in various applications. Their images can either
be real (formed on a screen) or virtual (formed ‘inside’ and behind the
mirror), upright or inverted, magnified or diminished.
· The mirror formula calculates the position of images formed by spherical
mirrors by relating focal length, object distance, and image distance.
· The magnification formula determines the size and orientation of an
image.
· The laws of refraction explain how light changes speed and direction
between different media.

REFLECTION IN A PLANE MIRROR

Reflection is a phenomenon of the ‘bouncing back’ of a wave in the same medium.
One example of this is when a light ray encounters a surface; some proportion
of the light will be reflected, whilst some is absorbed. Highly polished or shiny
surfaces (mirrors) are some of the most efficient reflectors of light, leaving only a
small proportion absorbed.

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Laws of Reflection
LAW 1: The incident ray, the reflected ray and the normal at the point of incidence
all lie on the same plane.
LAW 2: The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection (i = r)
The angle of incidence: The angle of incidence is the angle between an incident
ray and the normal (a line perpendicular to the surface) of a surface at the point
where the ray strikes the surface. It is measured in relation to the normal and is
usually denoted by the symbol “i”.
The angle of reflection: The angle of reflection is the angle between a reflected ray
and the normal to a surface at the point where the incident ray strikes the surface.
It is also measured in relation to the normal and is usually denoted by the symbol
“r”.

Activity 4.1: Verifying the Laws of Reflection

Investigate the relationship between the angle of incidence and the angle of
reflection when light reflects off a plane mirror.
Materials needed:
· Plane mirror
· Protractor
· Paper and pencil
· Ray box or laser pointer

Procedure:
1. Set up a plane mirror on top of a piece of plain paper, so that the mirror’s
surface is at 90 degrees to the paper.
2. Draw a straight line along the surface of the mirror, leaving it in place.
3. Direct a narrow beam of light towards the surface of the mirror, such that
it can be seen travelling on the surface of the paper.
4. Mark two crosses on the ‘incident’ (incoming) beam of light and two
crosses on the ‘reflected’ beam of light.
5. Remove the mirror and connect the crosses, forming a complete picture
of the path of the light (see image below).

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Fig. 4.1: Reflection of light on a plane mirror

6. Using a protractor, measure and record the angle of incidence (the angle
between the incident ray and the normal, a line perpendicular to the
mirror’s surface at the point where the light meets it) and the angle of
reflection (the angle between the reflected ray and the normal).
7. Repeat steps 3-5 with the beam of light directed towards the mirror at a
range of angles.
8. Analyse your data and look for patterns in the relationship between the
angle of incidence and the angle of reflection.

Note: In the absence of practical equipment, the PHeT simulation could

be used; follow QR code below.

Activity 4.2 Calculating angles of incidence, reflection, and deviation

using the laws of reflection.

Solve the questions below

1. Find the angle of reflection, r, when a light ray incident at a glancing
angle ,30​°​
2. What is the angle of deviation when angle of incidence of light is 30​°​?

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3. A light ray strikes a plane mirror making an angle of 25​°​with the mirror.
Calculate the angle between the incident and reflected ray.

Formation of image in a plane mirror

An image is formed when two or more rays meet or appear to meet at a point.
A ray diagram can be constructed by taking a beam of light from the image and
reflecting it into the top of the eye, then by taking another beam and reflecting it
into the bottom of the eye (being careful to obey the laws of reflection). The rays
of light can then be extrapolated back to where they ‘appear’ to originate. See
images below.

Fig. 4.2: Ray diagram for the formation of a mirror image

Activity 4.3 Identifying characteristics of images formed by a plane

mirror

Select the correct description of an image formed in a plane mirror, using the
images above for guidance.
· Laterally inverted (left becomes right and vice versa or not inverted.
· Inverted (upside down) or erect (upright)
· Real (actual light rays meet) or virtual (light rays appear to meet)
· The same size as the object or smaller than the object.
· Object-mirror distance is equal to image-mirror distance or image is
further from mirror.

Note: see Annex 4.2 for definitions of some of the above terms.

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Activity 4.4 Images formed when two mirrors are inclined at 900

Materials needed:
· 2 plane mirrors
· Protractor
· Paper and pencil

Procedure:
1. Join a mixed-ability group of 3-4 learners.
2. Set the two mirrors at an initial angle of 30 degrees to one another, as
measured using the protractor.
3. Observe the number of images you see in the mirrors and record your
observations.
4. Repeat steps 3-4, adjusting the angle between the mirrors to 45 degrees
and then 60 degrees.
5. Once the observations are complete, discuss the following questions
within your groups:
a. How does the number of images change as the angle between the mirrors
is increased?
b. Can you identify any patterns or relationships between the angle of
inclination and the number of images?
c. Can you explain why the number of images changes as the angle is
adjusted?

When two mirrors are placed at an angle (θ) with respect to each other, multiple
images can be formed due to the repeated reflection of light between the mirrors.
The number of images (N) formed is inversely proportional to the angle of
inclination and can be calculated using the formula:
N=( θ )
​ ​
​360
​​ ___ ​ ​− 1.​
As the angle of inclination (θ) decreases, the number of images increases. This
is because the light undergoes more reflections between the two mirrors, creating
a larger number of virtual images. The principles governing the formation of
images in inclined mirrors build upon the fundamental laws of reflection.

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Fig. 4.3: Reflection of light between two mirrors at an angle θ

Activity 4.5 Calculating the number of images and angle of inclination

between two mirrors

1. Find the number of images formed in two plane mirrors inclined at

a. 60o
b. 30o
c. 90o
2. Find the angle of inclination of the mirrors in the case that there are this
many images:
a. 5
b. 11
c. 23
3. A light ray strikes a vertical mirror at incident angle of 30o which is
inclined at 90o with another horizontal mirror. Sketch this arrangement,
and find
a. the angle of reflection in the second mirror and
b. the glancing angle in the second mirror.

TERMINOLOGIES ASSOCIATED WITH

SPHERICAL MIRRORS
Concave mirror: It is an optical mirror, which is part of a sphere with reflecting
inner surface.
Convex mirror: It is an optical mirror, which is part of a sphere with reflecting
outer surface.

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Activity 4.6 Labelling the key features of spherical mirrors.

Fig 4.4: Diagram of convex mirror and concave mirror

The figure above shows the two types of spherical mirror. Note that the dashed
lines indicate the non-reflective side. Re-draw these diagrams, labelling on and
defining the following features (you should use the internet or other research
resources to help you):
1. Pole P:
2. Principal axis
3. Centre of Curvature C.
4. Radius of curvature
5. Principal focus F
6. Focal length of a mirror f

(a) Concave mirror (b) Convex mirror

Fig. 4.5: Images of concave and convex mirror

Watch the video linked here: https://youtu.be/oDNqfxRYQY0. In the case that

you do not have access to the video, find details on its message in Annex 4.4

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Concave mirror - From the video, it can be concluded that concave mirrors give
both inverted and erect images, but the erect image is bigger than the size of the
object.
Convex mirror - Also, in the case of the convex mirror, the image is always
diminished and upright.
In mirrors, images that are inverted are called real images. These are images
formed as a result of the actual intersection of rays. They can be formed on a
screen. Images that are erect or upright are formed as a result of the apparent
intersection of rays. That means the image can be formed inside the mirror and
cannot be formed on a screen.

Activity 4.7 Exploring convex and concave mirrors with flexible

reflective material

Materials needed:
· A piece of flexible reflective material (e.g., a shiny, bendable plastic or
foil)
· A light source that emits narrow beams (e.g., a laser pointer or a flashlight
with a narrow beam attachment)
· A ruler or measuring tape
· A flat surface to work on
· A stand or something to hold the reflective material in place

Note: in the absence of practical equipment the interactive PhET

simulation could be used; follow QR code below.

Procedure:
1. Forming the mirrors:
a. Convex Mirror: Hold the reflective material so that it bulges
outward, like the back of a spoon.

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Fig. 4.6: Parallel rays of light reflected by convex mirror

b. Concave Mirror: Hold the reflective material so that it curves

inward, like the inside of a bowl.

Fig. 4.7: Parallel rays of light reflected by concave mirror

2. Shining Light and Measuring Focal Length:

a. When the ‘mirror’ is in the convex position, shine the narrow
beam of light parallel to the principal axis of the mirror. Trace the
path of the light on to the paper.
b. Repeat for a range of distances between the light ray and the
principal axis.
c. Observe where the light rays appear to diverge from behind the
mirror. Trace these rays backward to find the virtual focus point.
Measure the distance from the mirror’s surface to this virtual focus
point to find the focal length.
d. Repeat the procedure with the mirror in the concave position,
but with an Equal radius of curvature to before (you can confirm
this by ensuring that the ends of the mirror are the same direct
distance apart). Observe where the light rays converge in front of
the mirror. This point is the real focus. Measure the distance from
the mirror’s surface to this real focus point to find the focal length.

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3. Comparing Focal Lengths:

a. Discuss and compare the focal lengths for both the convex and
concave mirrors.

Relationship between Focal Length and Radius of

Curvature:
a. The focal length (f) of a spherical mirror is related to the radius of curvature
(R) by the equation
R ​​
f = ​​__
2
b. This means that the magnitude of the focal length is half the radius of
curvature for both types of mirrors.

Comparison of Convex and Concave Mirrors:

a. Although the magnitude of the focal length is the same, the type of focal
point differs. In a concave mirror, the focus is real and located in front of
the mirror. In a convex mirror, the focus is virtual and appears behind the
mirror.
b. Example:
i. If the radius of curvature (R) is 10 cm, then the focal length (f) for both
mirrors will be 5 cm.
ii. For the concave mirror, f = +5 cm (real focus).
iii. For the convex mirror, f = −5 cm (virtual focus).

Activity 4.8 Quiz Game: Spherical mirrors terminologies

Game Setup:
1. Participants: Divide yourselves into teams of at most four or compete
individually.
2. Materials needed:
· Quiz question cards (or a digital quiz platform)
· A scoreboard
· Buzzers or any system to determine who answers first (optional)

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3. Rules:
· Assign one person to be quiz master or take a turn each.
Alternatively, your teacher may run this quiz.
· Each correct answer earns a point.
· The team or individual with the most points at the end wins.
Quiz Questions
1. What is the point on the surface of the mirror that lies on the principal
axis?
2. What is the name of the imaginary line that passes through the pole and
the centre of curvature of the mirror?
3. What is the point called where parallel rays of light either converge (for
concave mirrors) or appear to diverge (for convex mirrors) after reflecting
from the mirror?
4. What term describes the distance between the pole and the focus of a
spherical mirror?
5. What is the term for the centre of the sphere from which a spherical
mirror segment is taken?
6. What is the distance from the pole to the centre of curvature called?
7. True or False: For a concave mirror, the focal length is positive.
8. True or False: The focal length of a convex mirror is negative.
9. In which type of mirror does the image always appear virtual, smaller,
and upright?
10. In which type of mirror can the image be real or virtual, magnified or
reduced, and upright or inverted?
11. What is the term for the imaginary plane that is perpendicular to the
principal axis and passes through the focal point?
12. Which mirror is used to converge light rays to a focal point?
13. Which mirror is used in vehicles to provide a wider field of view for the
driver?
14. True or False: The image formed by a concave mirror can be projected
onto a screen.
15. What happens to light rays that are parallel to the principal axis when
they reflect off a convex mirror?

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16. In a concave mirror, what is the nature of the image when the object is
placed between the focal point and the mirror?
17. What kind of mirror is used in solar cookers to focus sunlight to a single
point?
18. What is the term for the type of image that cannot be projected onto a
screen and appears to be located inside the mirror?
19. Which mirror would you use to get a diminished image of a large area,
like in a store or an intersection?
20. In what type of mirror does the reflected image appear to be the same
size as the object and upright when the object is placed at the centre of
curvature?

Characteristics of image formation in spherical

mirrors using ray diagram
The position, nature, and size of the image formed depend on the object’s location
relative to the mirror. Concave mirrors can form real or virtual images depending
on the object’s position. Convex mirrors always produce virtual images that are
upright, diminished and located behind the mirror.
In locating the image formed by a spherical mirror, three specific rays are
commonly used. They help in understanding whether the image is real or virtual,
upright or inverted, and magnified or diminished, depending on the mirror’s type
and object position relative to it:
1. Paraxial Ray (Parallel Ray)
2. Principal Ray (Focal Ray)
3. Centre Ray (Through the Centre of Curvature)

Activity 4.9 Drawing a ray diagram for a concave mirror

Scenario:
You have a concave mirror with a radius of curvature R=20 cm. An object is
placed 15 cm away from the mirror along the principal axis.
Materials needed:
· Blank diagram with the principal axis, centre of curvature (C), focal
point (F), pole (P), mirror, and object position marked.

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Procedure:
1. Identify Key Points on the Diagram:
a. Principal Axis: The horizontal line on which all key points are
located.
b. Center of Curvature (C): Marked at 20 cm from the pole (P).
c. Focal Point (F): Located at R/2=10 cm from the pole (P).
d. Pole (P): The point on the mirror’s surface.
2. Draw the Object:
a. Draw the object as a vertical arrow (O) at the given distance (15
cm) from the pole (P).
3. Draw the Rays:
a. Paraxial Ray (Parallel Ray):
i. Draw a ray parallel to the principal axis from the top of the
object (O) towards the mirror.
ii. After hitting the mirror, draw the reflected ray passing through
the focal point (F).
b. Principal Ray (Focal Ray):
i. Draw a ray from the top of the object (O) through the focal
point (F).
ii. After hitting the mirror, draw the reflected ray parallel to the
principal axis.
4. Using the diagram, describe the characteristics of the image formed.
Choose the correct terms to describe the image:
a. Magnified or Diminished: Is the image larger or smaller than the
object?
b. Inverted or Upright: Is the image upside down or right side up
compared to the object?

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c. Real or Virtual: Can the image be projected onto a screen (real)

or does it appear to be inside the mirror (virtual)?
5. Repeat the procedure and describe the image with object placed
a. 5 cm and
b. 25 cm from the concave mirror
6. Repeat the procedure using convex mirror with the same radius of
curvature.

Deduce whether the position of an object in relation to a curved mirror affects

the nature of the image produced, alongside instructions for how to draw the
three rays. Construct the entire diagram, including drawing a mirror and a
principal axis etc.

Activity 4.10 Virtual lab simulations for spherical Mirrors

Objective: To understand the principles of image formation by concave and

convex mirrors using virtual lab simulations.
Materials needed:
· Computer or tablet with internet access
· Access to a virtual lab simulation tool (e.g., PhET Interactive Simulations,
available at PhET or Sunflower)

Procedure:
1. Setup:
a. Go to the PhET Interactive Simulations website.

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b. Search for the “Geometric Optics” simulation or a similar tool that

allows manipulation of mirrors and lenses.
2. Exploring Concave Mirrors:
a. Launch the simulation and select a concave mirror.
b. Place an object (such as an arrow) in front of the concave mirror.
c. Adjust the position of the object to various distances (e.g. beyond
the centre of curvature (C), at C, between C and F, and between F
and the mirror).
d. Observe the changes in the image formed: note the position, size,
orientation (upright or inverted), and type (real or virtual) of the
image.
e. Record the observations for each position of the object in a table
as in the table below:
3. Exploring Convex Mirrors:
a. Select a convex mirror in the simulation.
b. Place an object in front of the convex mirror.
c. Move the object to different positions and observe how the image
characteristics change.
d. Note the position, size, orientation, and type of image formed for
each object position.
e. Record the observations in a table.
Table 4.1: Table to record observations made throughout Activity 4.10

Mirror Object Image Image Size Image Image

Type Position Position Orientation Type
Concave Beyond C Between F Diminished Inverted Real
and C
Concave At C
Concave Between C
and F
Concave Between F
and Mirror

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CHARACTERISTICS OF IMAGE FORMATION

IN SPHERICAL MIRRORS USING MIRROR
FORMULA AND MAGNIFICATION FORMULA
Mirrors are fundamental optical devices used to reflect light and form images.
In this lesson, you will explore how to determine the characteristics of images
formed by concave and convex mirrors using the mirror formula and magnification
formula. By conducting hands-on experiments and engaging in critical thinking,
you will develop a deeper understanding of optical principles.
The mirror formula relates to the object distance (u), the image distance (v) and
the focal length (f) of a mirror. It is expressed as,
​1f ​= ​__1u ​ + __
_ ​1v ​​
The magnification formula relates the height of the image (​​h​ i​​) to the height of the
object (​​h​ o​​). It is given by,
h​​
​m = ​_ i
​v ​
​= __
​h​ ​ u o

Sign convention for spherical mirrors

Understanding and correctly applying the sign convention in spherical mirrors
is essential for accurate and consistent results in optical calculations and for
understanding the nature and characteristics of images formed by these mirrors.
It avoids confusion and errors, ensuring clarity and precision in both academic
and practical applications. The information below shows the signs of the various
quantities in the spherical mirrors.
a. For object distance (u) and image distance (v):
i. Distances measured from the same side of the mirror as the reflective surface
are negative.
ii. Distances measured from the opposite side of the mirror are positive.
b. For focal length (f):
i. For a concave mirror, f is negative.
ii. For a convex mirror, f is positive.

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Fig 4.8: Sign convention for spherical mirror

Sign convention for Spherical Mirrors - Class 10 - Teachoo

Activity 4.11 Investigating magnification

Objective: Explore how the height of the image relates to the height of the
object using the magnification formula.
Materials needed:
· Concave mirror
· Convex mirror
· Small object with a known height (e.g., an optical pin, a ruler or a printed
scale)
· Paper and pen

Procedure:

Fig 4.9: schematic of the experimental setup

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1. Place the concave mirror on a flat surface.

2. Position the object at a known distance (u) from the mirror.
3. Measure and record the height of the object (ho).
4. Observe and measure the height of the image (hi) formed by the mirror.
h​​
5. Use the magnification formula ​m = __ ​−uv ​to calculate the
​​hi​​​ = ___
o

magnification of the image.

6. Repeat the process with the convex mirror.
7. Compare the calculated magnification values with your observations.
8. Discuss how the magnification changes with different object distances (u).

Questions (see Annex 4.5 for solutions):

· How does the magnification (M) of the image change as the object
distance (u) changes for concave and convex mirrors?

· What do your results tell you about the size and orientation of images
formed by concave versus convex mirrors?

Activity 4.12 Exploring the Mirror Formula

Objective: Determine the characteristics of images formed by concave and

convex mirrors using the mirror formula.
Materials needed:
· Concave mirror
· Convex mirror
· Meter ruler
· Small object (e.g., a toy or a candle)
· Paper and pen

Procedure:
1. Place the concave mirror on a flat surface.
2. Position the small object at various distances (u) from the mirror.
3. Measure and record the object distance (u) and the corresponding image
distance (v) for each position.

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4. Use the meter ruler to ensure accurate measurements.

5. Use the mirror formula ​​__1f ​= ​__1u ​+ ​__1v ​ to calculate the focal length (f) of
the concave mirror.
6. Repeat the process with the convex mirror.
7. Compare the calculated focal lengths with the known focal lengths (if
provided).
8. Reflect on any discrepancies and consider possible sources of error.

Questions (see Annex 4.5 for solutions):

· How does the image distance (v) change as the object distance (u)
changes for concave and convex mirrors?
· What do your results tell you about the nature of images formed by
concave versus convex mirrors?

Activity 4.13 Calculating image properties using mirror and

magnification Formulas

A concave mirror with an object beyond centre of curvature

1. An object is placed 30 cm in front of a concave mirror with a focal
length of 10 cm. Determine the position and nature of the image formed.

The object between focal Point and concave mirror

2. An object is placed 15 cm in front of a concave mirror with a focal
length of 10 cm. Determine the position and nature of the image formed.

Object at the focal point of a concave mirror

3. An object is placed at the focal point of a concave mirror with a focal
length of 10 cm. Determine the position and characteristics of the image
formed.

Object in front of a convex mirror

4. An object is placed 20 cm in front of a convex mirror with a focal length
of -10 cm. Determine the position and characteristics of the image
formed. Sketch the ray diagram for this scenario, showing the position
and nature of the image formed by the convex mirror.

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Activity 4.14 Critical thinking and real-world applications

Objective: Develop a deeper understanding of optical principles by applying

them to real-world scenarios.
Materials needed:
· Internet access for research (optional)
· Paper and pen

Procedure:
1. Research real-world applications of concave and convex mirrors (e.g.,
telescopes, car rearview mirrors, make-up mirrors).
2. Write a summary of one application, explaining how the mirror formula
and magnification formula are used.
3. Design a simple optical device using concave and/or convex mirrors
(e.g., a basic periscope or a magnifying mirror).
4. Draw a diagram of your device, labelling the important parts and
explaining how it works using the mirror formula and magnification
formula.
5. Create a presentation or a report summarizing your research and your
designed optical device.
6. Include explanations of how the mirror formula and magnification
formula apply to your examples.

Questions:
i. How are concave and convex mirrors used in everyday life?
ii. How does understanding the mirror formula and magnification formula
help in designing optical devices?

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Activity 4.15 Verifying the mirror formula experimentally

Experimental exploration – if equipment is available (otherwise, you can

replicate this using the PhET simulation linked previously)
Materials needed:
· Concave and convex mirror
· Optical bench
· Mounted object (e.g., a pin or small object)
· Screen
· Metre ruler or measuring tape

Procedure:

` Fig 4.10: schematic of the experimental setup

1. Mount the concave mirror on the optical bench.

2. Place the object at a fixed distance (e.g., 30 cm) from the mirror
3. Move the screen along the optical bench to find the position where a
sharp image is formed.
4. Measure and record the distance between the mirror and the screen (v).
5. Measure and record the distance between the object and the mirror (u).
6. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for different object distances (e.g., 25 cm, 20 cm,
15 cm).
1 __ 1 1
7. Use the recorded values of u and v to calculate ​​​__ __
u ​​, ​​​ v ​​ and ​​​ f ​ (using the
mirror formula)
8. Compare the calculated focal length with the known focal length of the
mirror to confirm the validity of the equation.
9. Plot a graph of ​​​​__1v ​​(​x axis​)​​​ against ​​​​__
1
u ​​(​y axis​)​​​. Add a line of best fit. Both
the x and y intercepts of the graph should give the value of ​​​__1f ​.

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10. Repeat the experiment using a convex mirror.

Data Table:
Table 4.2: Table to record observations made throughout Activity 4.15

_1 1
_ 1
_ 1 _
_ 1
Object distance(u) Image distance (v) ​u ​ ​v ​ ​ ​ = v​+ u​
f
30
25
20
15

Analysis:
· Why is it important to ensure the object and screen are precisely aligned
on the optical bench?
· What is the significance of the negative focal length for convex mirrors
in the mirror formula?

Activity 4.16 Verifying the magnification formula experimentally

Using the same experimental set up as in Activity 4.14, follow this alternative
procedure to verify the magnification formula:
Procedure:
1. Mount the concave mirror on the optical bench.
2. Place the object at a fixed distance (e.g., 20 cm) from the mirror.
3. Move the screen along the optical bench to find the position where a
sharp image is formed.
4. Measure and record the distance between the mirror and the screen (v).
5. Measure the height of the object (ho).
6. Measure the height of the image (hi) formed on the screen.
7. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for different object distances (e.g., 25 cm, 15 cm).

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Data Table:
Table 4.3: Table to record observations made throughout Activity 4.16

Object Image Object Image Magnification​ Magnification

m = ​h_​​​
​h​
Distance Distance Height Height i

(u) (v) (ho) (hi)

o
​m = −u__​v​

-20 cm
-25 cm
-15 cm

Analysis:
h​​
​ = __
• Compare the calculated magnification values from m ​vu ​​ to
​​hi​​​​ and​ m = − __
o
check for consistency.
• Why does the image height vary when you change the object distance?

LAWS OF REFRACTION
Refraction is a phenomenon where there is a change in the direction and velocity of
light when the light travelling in a transparent medium enters another transparent
medium of different optical densities.

Light Bending as it passes from

Air to Water

Fig 4.11: Refraction of light at the air-water interface

The laws governing the phenomenon of refraction are:

1. The incident ray, the refracted ray and the normal at the point of incidence
all lie in the same plane.

25
SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

2. Snell’s law: The ratio of the sine of the angle of incidence to the sine of the
angle of refraction is constant for a given pair of media.
_sini n​ ​
​
​sinr ​= ​_
​n​ ​​
2
1

​n1​ ​sini = ​n2​ ​sinr​

Activity 4.17 Investigate refraction at home or in the lab

Materials needed:
· A transparent glass or cup
· Water
· A pencil or straw

Procedure:
1. Fill the glass with water.
2. Place the pencil or straw in the glass.
3. Look at the pencil or straw from the side of the glass.

Fig 4.12: Apparent bending of a pencil due to refraction in water

Observation:
Why did the pencil or straw appear bent? Relate your observation to the
concepts and laws of refraction you have learned and share with a friend.

26
SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Activity 4.18 Research and answer the questions below about refraction
in everyday life.

1. What happens to the appearance of a pencil when it is placed in a glass

of water?
2. Why does this happen?
3. How do lenses in glasses and cameras help correct vision and capture
clear images?
4. How is a rainbow formed in the sky?
5. Why do objects underwater appear closer to the surface than they are?
6. What causes the appearance of a mirage in deserts or on hot roads?

Activity 4.19 - Investigating refraction using water and oil Interface

Objective: understand how waves refract when travelling between two

different mediums other than air, specifically water and oil.
Materials needed:
· A clear rectangular container
· Water
· Vegetable oil
· Laser pointer
· Protractor
· Ruler
· Graph paper
· Safety goggles

Procedure:

Fig 4.13: Laser beam refraction

27
SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

1. Join a group of 2-4 people.

2. Fill the clear container halfway with water.
3. Carefully add a layer of vegetable oil on top of the water. The oil will
float on the water, creating a clear interface between the two mediums.
4. Shine the laser pointer at an angle through the oil-water interface.
Observe the path of the laser beam as it travels from the oil into the
water.
5. Using the protractor, measure the angle of incidence (the angle at which
the laser beam enters the oil-water interface).
6. Measure the angle of refraction (the angle at which the laser beam bends
as it enters the water).
7. Record your measurements of the angle of incidence and the angle
of refraction in a table. Repeat the experiment for different angles of
incidence.

Analysis:
Using Snell’s Law, calculate the ratio of the refractive indices of the oil and
water.
Discussion:
Compare your experimental results with the theoretical values of refractive
indices for water and oil.

Activity 4.20 Investigating Snell’s law

Objective: to measure the incident and refracted angles of light as it passes

through a glass block and to observe how these angles change with varying
incident angles.
Materials needed:
· Laser pointer
· Glass block
· Protractor
· Ruler
· Sheet of paper
· Pencil

28
SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Procedure:
1. Place a piece of paper on a table.
2. Position the glass block in the centre of the paper.
3. Draw a straight line along one edge of the glass block to mark its position.
Label this line as the boundary between air and glass.
4. Using the protractor, draw a line perpendicular (90 degrees) to the
boundary line at the point where the laser light will enter the glass block.
This line is called the normal line.
5. Secure the laser pointer in place so it shines a beam of light at the
boundary line. Ensure the laser pointer is stable and will not move during
the experiment.
6. Trace the path of the light onto the paper.
7. Mark the point where the light exits the glass block on the paper.
8. Draw a line connecting the point where the light enters the glass block to
the point where it exits. This is the refracted ray.
9. Use the protractor to measure the angle between the laser beam (incident
ray) and the normal line. Record this angle as the incident angle (i).
10. Use the protractor to measure the angle between the refracted ray and the
normal line on the exit side of the glass block. Record this angle as the
refracted angle (r).
11. Change the angle at which the laser beam hits the glass block by rotating
the laser pointer.
12. Repeat steps 1 to 3 for different incident angles (e.g., 10 degrees, 20
degrees, 30 degrees, etc.).
13. Record the incident and refracted angles for each trial.

Data Collection:
Table 4.4: Table to record observations made throughout Activity 4.20

Trial Incident Angle (i) Refracted Angle (r) sin (i) sin (r)
1
2
3
4
5

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Analysis:
· Create a graph with sin(i) on the y-axis and sin(r) on the x-axis.
n
· Find the slope of the graph to give a value for __
​​n2 ​​.
1

· n1 = 1 for air, therefore, find n2 (the refractive index of the glass).

Conclusion:
· Summarise your findings on how the incident angle affects the refracted
angle.
· Discuss any patterns observed in your data.

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

ANNEXES

Annex 4.1 – Solutions to some activities

Activity 4.2

1.

​[g​ lancing ​ angle ​]​+ ​[​angle of​ incidence ]​ ​= 90 o

30 o + i = 90o
i = 90o - 30 o = 60 o
r = i , r = 60 o
2. The angle of deviation is 180° - 60° = 120°
3.

Ans; 130o

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Activity 4.3

Laterally inverted (left becomes right and right becomes left) and vice versa.
Erect
Virtual (cannot be formed on the screen)
Image is of the same size as object, h1 = ho
Image distance is equal to object distance, v= u

Activity 4.5

1.
a) n = ( θ )
​ ​− 1 →​n = ( ​)​ − 1 →​n = 6 – 1 = 5 images
​ ​ ​ ​
​360
​​ ___ ​360
60
​​ ___

b) n = ​​(___
θ )
​ ​− 1​→ n = ( ​)​ − 1 ​→ n = 12 – 1 = 11 images
​ ​ ​ ​
​360 ​330
60
​​ ___

c) n = ​​(___
θ )
​ ​− 1 →​n = ( ​)​ − 1 →​n = 4 – 1 = 3 images
​ ​ ​ ​
​360 ​390
60
​​ ___

2.
a) ​θ​ = ( ) ( ) ( 6 )
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​
​n3+
60
​​ ____ 1
​ ​​ ,​ θ​ = ​​ ​ 360
____
5+1
​ ​​ = ​​ 360
___
​ ​ ​​ = 60o

b) ​θ​ = ( 1)
​ ​​ =​ θ​ = ( + 1 ) ( 12 )
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​
​n3+
60
​​ ____ ​11360
​​ _____ ​360 ​ ​​ = 30o
​ ​​ = ​​ ___

c) ​θ​ = ( 1)
​ ​​ =​ θ​ = ( + 1 ) ( 24 )
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​
​n3+
60
​​ ____ ​23360
​​ _____ ​360 ​ ​​ =15 o
​ ​​ = ​​ ___

3.
Illustration

From the diagram above

a. 60o
b. 30o

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Annex 4.2 – Further Information on Reflection in a

Plane Mirror
Laws of reflection
Relationship between the angle of incidence, reflection and glancing angle:
Consider the diagram below

Fig 4.14: Reflection showing angle of incidence and glancing angle

glancing angle + angle of incidence = 90 o

Lateral inversion is a phenomenon where a lateral side or part of a body or an

object becomes the opposite side.

Fig. 4.15: Image showing lateral inversion

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Real and virtual images

Images are formed either at the point where rays of light meet intersect or at the
point where they appear to originate. An image formed can be two kinds. These
are real image and virtual image.
A real image is formed by the actual intersection of two or more rays from an
object (real light rays). Real images are formed on a screen. e.g. the image in a
pinhole camera.
A virtual image is formed by the apparent intersection of two or more rays from
an object. A virtual image is formed from two divergent rays of light that never
meet but are ‘tracked back’ to the point that they appear to have originated from.
In simple terms, a plane mirror creates an image of an object you cannot touch.
All mirrors create virtual images in this manner, but plane mirrors reflect light
differently than concave or convex mirrors do.
Virtual images are not formed on a screen such as image formed on a plane mirror.
Virtual images or rays are represented by dotted lines or rays.
Images formed when two mirrors are inclined at 900

Fig 4.16: Ray diagram of images formed when two mirrors are inclined at 900

Whenever two mirrors are inclined at an angle 90o to each other and an object is
placed in front of them, it revealed by observation that three images are formed
on the mirrors by multiple reflection the images Ia and Ib are formed by simple
reflection. The additional image Ic is produced as a result of reflection of two main
images that is reflection of image ‘Ia’ in mirror (‘Ib’) and reflection image (Ib) in
mirror (A) it is the super imposition of two images.
The relationship between the angle of inclination and the number of images is:
n=( θ )
​ ​− 1​, → ​θ​ = ( 1)
​ ​ ​ ​
​360
​​ ___ ​n3+
60
​​ ____ ​ ​​

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

NOTE 1
Consider two mirrors inclined at an angle of 180o.
M1 M2
The number of images formed is given as:
​​360
N = ___
180
​​– 1 = 1 image
It takes a single mirror to form one image of an object. This means that, this
arrangement of the two mirrors, inclined 180o acts as a single mirror
NOTE 2
Consider the mirrors inclined at an angle 0o in which case the two mirrors are
parallel to each other.

The number of images formed is given as

N=( 0 )
​360
​​ ___ ​ ​​– 1 = ​∞​ images
(this means multiple or uncountable images)

Annex 4.3 – Solutions to some activities

Activity 4.6

Fig. 4.17: Diagram illustrating a concave mirror with accompanying terminologies

1. Pole P: It is the central point of a concave or convex mirror through

which the principal axis passes.
2. Principal axis is an imaginary line joining the centre of curvature
through the principal focus to the pole.

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

3. Centre of Curvature C is the centre of a sphere of which the mirror is

part.
4. Radius of curvature is the distance from this centre of curvature to the
pole of the mirror.
5. Principal focus F is a point on the principal axis, where all rays parallel
and close to the principal axis either converge or appear to diverge after
reflection from the curved mirror.
6. Focal length of a mirror f is the distance between the pole of the mirror
and the principal focus.

Activity 4.7

Conclusion: For mirrors with the same radius of curvature (R), the magnitude
of the focal length (f) should be the same, but the nature of the focal point is
different:
· For a concave mirror, the focal length is positive (real focus).
· For a convex mirror, the focal length is negative (virtual focus).

Activity 4.8

Quiz Answers:
1. Pole (P)
2. Principal Axis
3. Focus (F)
4. Focal Length (f)
5. Center of Curvature (C)
6. Radius of Curvature (R)
7. True
8. True
9. Convex Mirror
10. Concave Mirror
11. Focal Plane
12. Concave Mirror

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

13. Convex Mirror

14. True (when the image is real)
15. They diverge as if they are coming from the virtual focus behind the
mirror.
16. The image is virtual, magnified, and upright.
17. Concave Mirror
18. Virtual Image
19. Convex Mirror
20. Concave Mirror

Activity 4.9

5 a.
· Magnified: The image appears larger than the object.
· Upright: The image is right side up compared to the object.
· Virtual: The image appears to be inside the mirror and cannot be
projected onto a screen.
5b
· Diminished: The image appears smaller than the object.
· Inverted: The image is upside down compared to the object.
· Real: The image can be projected onto a screen.

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Annex 4.4 – Further Information on Spherical Mirrors

Welcome to this section. In the case where the video mentioned previously cannot
be watched at the place where you are currently, join the dialogue below. I would
like you to follow the picture of a man watching himself in a spherical mirror and
read the conversation between Laila, Kotey and their teacher to understand what
is going on.

Scenario 1 – Concave (stood far away) Scenario 2- Concave mirror (stood

closer)

Fig. 4.12: Image of a man watching himself in a spherical mirror

(Courtesy of Manocha Academy)

Teacher: Today, we are going to watch a man standing at a distance in front of a

spherical mirror. What do you see and what can you say about his image?
Laila: He is turned upside down.
Teacher: Good, we say his image is inverted. Can you say anything about him
again?
Kotey: Yes, his image size is smaller than himself.
Teacher: Fantastic. You are right. We say his image is diminished. Now, watch
the second scenario as he moves closer to the mirror. What do you now observe?
Kotey: Well, I think his image size now looks bigger than himself.
Teacher: Good! We say his image is magnified or enlarged. Is that all?
Laila: No Sir. His image this time is not inverted. He is standing straight.
Teacher: Awesome! We say his image is upright or erect.

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Scenario 3- Convex mirror

Fig. 4.13: Image of a man watching himself in a convex mirror

Now let us consider scenario 3 as he moves to stand in front of the next spherical
mirror B.
Teacher: What do you observe?
Kotey: The man is standing upright
Teacher: Precisely.
Laila: Yes! He is also diminished in size.
Teacher: Good! Your observations are right.

Rules in drawing Ray diagrams

Table 4.5: rules in drawing ray diagrams

Rule Representation
Paraxial ray - Ray parallel to principal
axis will pass through the focus after
reflection or appear to come from
focus, F.

Principle ray - Ray passing through

the focus will become parallel to the
principal axis after reflection or a ray
is in line with the focus after striking
the mirror will move parallel to the
principal axis.

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Rule Representation
Centre ray – A ray of light that passes
through the centre of curvature or in
line with it after striking the mirror, is
reflected back along the same path.

Ray 4 - A ray of light that strikes

the pole of the mirror at an angle
of incidence is reflected back at the
same angle that the angle of incidence
equals the angle of reflection.
NOTE: achieving equal angles is
difficult in practice.
https://www.teachoo.com/10824/3118/Rules-for-drawing-Ray-Diagram-in-
Mirrors/category/Concepts/

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Formation of ray diagrams

Table 4.6: Table containing ray diagrams for concave and convex mirrors

Ray diagrams of concave mirror

1 2

Image forming at infinity

3 4

5 6 Scenario A

If you draw 2 on a light plane paper

and you turn the back of the paper, you
will get this diagram.

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Ray diagrams in convex mirrors

1 2

Object moves from O to O’ and image

moves from I to I’ closer to mirror.
3 Scenario A

Two rays from infinity are parallel: one in line with C and the other in line with F

Uses of spherical mirrors

Convex
Some examples of where spherical mirrors are used include for convex mirrors;
Car side mirrors, Security mirrors in stores, near ATM machines and Industrial
and Workplace Safety
Concave
Makeup mirrors, Telescopes (concave), Shaving mirrors, Reflectors in flashlights,
Solar cookers, Dentist’s mirrors, Streetlight reflectors and Magnifying glasses.

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Annex 4.5 – Solutions to some activities

Activity 4.11

· For a concave mirror, the magnification (M) can be greater than 1 (image
is larger) or less than 1 (image is smaller) and can be positive (upright)
or negative (inverted) depending on the object’s distance (u).
· For a convex mirror, the magnification (M) is always less than 1 (the
image is smaller) and positive (upright).
· As the object distance (u) changes, the magnification (M) changes
inversely. For closer objects, the image appears larger in a concave mirror
and smaller in a convex mirror.

Activity 4.12

· For a concave mirror, as the object distance (u) decreases (object moves
closer to the mirror), the image distance (v) increases (image moves
farther from the mirror) and can become real and inverted if within the
focal length.
· For a convex mirror, the image distance (v) is always negative (virtual
image) and located behind the mirror, getting closer to the mirror as the
object distance (u) decreases.
· Any discrepancies could be due to measurement errors, improper
alignment, or imperfections in the mirrors.

Activity 4.13

1. Given:
· u​ = − 30 cm​
· ​f = 10 cm​
Using the mirror formula:
​1f ​= __
_
​ ​1​u ​+ __
​1v ​

​_1 ​= __
1 ​  + __
​30 ​1v​ ​​
10

​_v1​= __
​ 1 ​  + ___
​10 1 ​​
​30

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

​3 30
+1
​_1v ​= _____ ​​
​_1v ​= __4 ​ ​
​30
​1v ​= __
_ 2 ​ ​
​15
​v = __​15
2
​​
v = 7.5 cm

Determine the Magnification

v
​m = − ​__
m​
7.5
​m = − ​____
− 30
​​

​7.5
​m = ___
30
​​
​m = 0.25​

Characteristics:
· Nature: Real (since v is positive)
· Orientation: Inverted (since m is negative)
· Size: Diminished (since ∣ m ∣ < 1)
2. Given:
· u​ = − 15 cm​
· ​f = 10 cm​
Using the mirror formula:
​1v ​= __
_ ​1​f ​ − __
​1u ​

​1v ​= __
_ 1 ​  − ​___
​10 1 ​
15

​v1 ​ = __
__ 1 ​  + ___
​10 1 ​​
​15
3
​1v ​= __
_ ​30 2 ​ ​
​  + ​__
30
5
​1v ​= ___
_ ​30 ​​
​v = 6 cm​
Determine the Magnification
​vu​​
​m = − __
6
m = − ​____
–15
​​

44
SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

6
​m = ​___
15
​​
​m = 0.4​

Characteristics:
· Nature: Virtual (since v is positive)
· Orientation: Upright (since m is positive)
· Size: Diminished (since ​∣ m ∣ < 1​)
3. v=∞
4. v = -6.66cm

Annex 4.6 - Further Information on Image Formation

Spherical mirrors
Graph plotting in spherical mirrors
Graph plotting is a powerful tool that helps us visualise relationships between
different variables. Let us dive in and explore how different distances relate in the
context of mirrors
Object Distance (u) vs. Image Distance (v)
The diagram below shows how the distance between an object and a concave
mirror (u) affects the distance of the resulting image (v) from the mirror. Each
point represents a different position of the object. As the object moves closer to
the mirror, notice how the image distance changes

45
SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Here is a sample table of data showing the relationship between object distance
and image distance. The graph of object distance (u) versus image distance (v) is
shown below.

Object Distance (u/cm) Image Distance (v/cm)

50 16.67
40 20
30 24
25 30
20 40
15 60
Here is the graph of the object distance (u) on the x-axis and the image distance
(v) on the y-axis for a concave mirror.

Whilst the graph is an interesting shape, it is challenging to use it to discover the

value of the focal length of the mirror. Plotting an alternative graph of ​​__1v ​​ against ​​__1u​​
is more useful; see the results of Activity 4.15.

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Annex 4.7 – Solutions to some activities

Activity 4.18

1. Bending of a pencil in Water: When you place a pencil in a glass of

water, it appears bent at the surface of the water
2. It happens due to refraction.
3. Lenses in Glasses and Cameras: Lenses bend light to focus it, which
helps correct vision and capture clear images.
4. Rainbow Formation: Sunlight refracts as it enters and exits raindrops,
splitting into different colours and creating a rainbow.
5. Apparent Depth: Objects underwater appear closer to the surface than
they actually are because light rays bend when they move from water to
air.
6. Mirage: In deserts or hot roads, light bends due to temperature variations
in the air, creating the illusion of water.

Annex 4.8 – Further Information on the laws of

refraction
1. The First Law of Refraction:
The incident ray, the refracted ray, and the normal to the interface of two
media at the point of incidence all lie in the same plane.
Explanation:
This means that if you draw a line perpendicular (normal) to the surface
where the light is entering the new medium, the incoming ray (incident ray)
and the outgoing ray (refracted ray) will both lie on the same flat surface.

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

2. The Second Law of Refraction (Snell’s Law):

The ratio of the sine of the angle of incidence (sin i) to the sine of the angle
of refraction (sin r) is a constant for two given media, which is equal to the
refractive index (n) of the second medium relative to the first medium.

Mathematically, this can be expressed as:

sini
​_
sinr
​= n​
​n1​ ​sini = ​n2​ ​sinr​
where:
· n1​is the refractive index of the first medium,
· n2​is the refractive index of the second medium,
· i is the angle of incidence,
· r is the angle of refraction.
Explanation:
Snell’s Law quantifies how much light will bend when entering a different
medium. The refractive index is a measure of how much the speed of light
is reduced inside the medium. For example, the refractive index of water is
about 1.33, which means light travels 1.33 times slower in water than in a
vacuum.

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

REVIEW QUESTIONS

Review Questions 4.1

1. A light ray strikes a plane mirror at an angle of 30° to the normal to the
mirror surface. What is the angle of reflection?
2. A light ray strikes a plane mirror at an angle of 45° to the normal to
the mirror surface. What is the angle between the incident ray and the
reflected ray (the angle of deviation)?
3. A light ray strikes a plane mirror at an angle of 60° with the normal to
the mirror surface. What is the angle of reflection, and what is the angle
between the incident ray and the reflected ray?
4. What is the relationship between the angle of inclination between two
mirrors and the number of images formed?
5. Explain the process of formation of multiple images in a system of two
inclined mirrors.
6. How can the knowledge of image formation in inclined mirrors be applied
in real-world scenarios?

Review Questions 4.2

1. How would the image characteristics change if an object moves from
beyond the centre of curvature (C) to the focal point (F) of a concave
mirror?
2. Describe the differences between the real images formed by concave
mirrors when the object is placed at different positions: beyond C, at C,
and between C and F.
3. Explain how a concave mirror can be used to concentrate sunlight to a
single point and what practical applications this has.
4. Compare the image formation of a concave mirror when used as a makeup
mirror versus when used in a reflecting telescope.
5. Design an investigation to explore how the curvature of a concave mirror
affects the focal length, and the characteristics of the images formed.

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

6. How would you demonstrate to your classmates the principle of image

inversion in concave mirrors using everyday materials?
7. Propose a real-world scenario where the understanding of concave mirrors
can solve a practical problem and explain your solution.
8. How does the image formed by a convex mirror differ from that formed by
a concave mirror when the object is placed at the same distance from the
mirrors?
9. Explain why convex mirrors are commonly used as side mirrors on
vehicles.
10. Describe how a convex mirror can be used for security purposes in a store.
11. Compare the effectiveness of convex mirrors versus flat mirrors in
providing a clear view of surroundings in public transportation systems.
12. Design an experiment to compare the field of view provided by a convex
mirror to that of a flat mirror. What would you measure and what outcomes
would you expect?

Review Questions 4.3

1. What is a spherical mirror?
2. Provide two examples of everyday objects that use spherical mirrors.
3. Define the terms
a) Principal axis
b) Pole
c) Principal focus in the context of spherical mirrors.
4. Describe three rays that could be used in locating the image formed in a
concave mirror and state how they are reflected by the mirror.
5. With the aid of a diagram, show how an image may be produced by a
convex mirror.
6. With the aid of a diagram, show how a virtual image may be produced by
a concave mirror.
7. How are the laws of reflection seen in the rules applied to the formation of
images in spherical mirrors?

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SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Review Questions 4.4

1. Compare and contrast reflection and refraction of light.
2. Evaluate the impact of varying refractive indices on the behaviour of light.
3. Discuss the environmental impact of refraction-based technologies.
4. Predict the path of light through a prism and explain why white light
separates into colours.
5. Explain the concept of magnification in the context of mirrors. How is it
calculated using the mirror formula?
6. A concave mirror has a focal length of 20 cm. If an object is placed 40
cm from the mirror, calculate the position of the image using the mirror
formula.
7. Discuss the relationship between object distance, image distance, and
focal length in concave mirrors. Provide an example calculation using the
mirror formula to illustrate your explanation.

51
EXTENDED READING
· Inclined Mirrors:
Chapter 34: “Reflection and Refraction” in Serway, R. A., & Jewett, J. W.
(2018). Physics for Scientists and Engineers with Modern Physics (10th
ed.). Cengage Learning.
Chapter 34: “Geometric Optics” in Young, H. D., & Freedman, R. A.
(2016). University Physics with Modern Physics (14th ed.). Pearson.
Halliday, D., Resnick, R., & Walker, J. (2013). Fundamentals of Physics
(10th ed.). Wiley. Images
· Formation of Images in Plane Mirrors:
Chapter 34: “Images” in Halliday, D., Resnick, R., & Walker, J. (2013).
Fundamentals of Physics (10th ed.). Wiley.
Chapter 34: “Reflection and Refraction” in Serway, R. A., & Jewett, J. W.
(2018). Physics for Scientists and Engineers with Modern Physics (10th
ed.). Cengage Learning.
· Abbott A.F. Ordinary Level Physics 2nd Edition,1970 Pg250- 263
· Folivi L.E. and Godman A. New Certificate Physics New Edition, 1988, Pg
192 – 199
· Addo John Motey and Jackson Barry- Senior High Physics

REFERENCES
1. Serway, R. A., & Jewett, J. W. (2018). Physics for Scientists and Engineers
with Modern Physics (10th ed.). Cengage Learning.
2. Young, H. D., & Freedman, R. A. (2016). University Physics with Modern
Physics (14th ed.). Pearson.
3. Halliday, D., Resnick, R., & Walker, J. (2013). Fundamentals of Physics
(10th ed.). Wiley.
4. The Physics Classroom: https://www.physicsclassroom.com/
5. Reflection of Light - Virtual Lab Simulation”
6. Spherical mirrors --- https://youtu.be/nT6nSlZ0FIQ
7. Video Convex and Concave mirror ray diagrams --- Khan Academy
https://youtu.be/OHXOwz1NLh0
8. https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/concave-and-convex-mirrors/
9. National Council of Educational Research and Training. (n.d.). NCERT
Class 10 Science Textbook. Retrieved from https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php
10. The Physics Classroom. (n.d.). Reflection and Refraction. Retrieved from
https://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/refrn
11. Nave, R. (n.d.). HyperPhysics - Reflection and Refraction. Georgia State
University. Retrieved from http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/
geoopt/mireq.html
12. Khan Academy. (n.d.). Light: Reflection and Refraction. Retrieved from
https://www.khanacademy.org/science/physics/geometric-optics
13. Serway, R. A., & Vuille, C. (2018). College Physics (11th ed.). Cengage
Learning.
SECTION 4 MIRRORS, REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

List of Contributors
Name Institution
Boniface N.T.A. Adams PRESEC, Osu- Accra
David Bawa National STEM Resource Centre
Stanley Kukubor Agogo Presby College of Education
Stephen Amissah Aburi Girls SHS Aburi

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