Image construction for a concave mirror

Principle

In this experiment the students will become acquainted with a procedure for the construction of an image of a given object by a concave mirror. Selected light beams and their characteristic paths are used. The experiment is demanding on the students' capabilities and experimental proficiency. However, with an accurate adjustment and performance of the experiment it can result in tremendous gains in the students' insights; particularly if corresponding experimental demonstrations with the optical bench are performed complementarily.
 
With this experiment the character of physical experiments in general can be clearly demonstrated: by carefully selecting the experimental conditions (object, distance, object size, focal length) one obtains results with new information content.
 
On the one hand, physical conformities to natural laws can be derived by varying the conditions; on the other hand, an inverse, deductive method can also be applied. The formation of images with the aid of selected light beams and the subsequent experimental testing allow for a large amount of leeway for an interesting and exciting organisation of your class. This experiment also clearly illustrates the role of mathematics (geometric construction) in acquiring knowledge of physical phenomena.

Benefits

• Multifunctional light box - All-in-one: Can be used for geometric optics on the table, colour mixing and on an optical bench
• Extension with others sets at anytime, no additional light sources needed, recognition value for students

Tasks

Why is the reflected image in a polished spoon inverted and reduced? In this experiment the image formation in a concave mirror is investigated with selected light beams.