Concave Mirrors
Definition
Concave mirrors are mirrors that curve inward, causing light rays to converge at a focal point. They are often used in telescopes and makeup mirrors.
Analogy
Imagine concave mirrors as giant scoops that collect and focus sunlight onto a single point, just like how you would use a magnifying glass to concentrate sunlight onto a piece of paper.
Related terms
Focal Point: The point where all the light rays converge after reflecting off a concave mirror.
Real Image: An image formed by the actual convergence of light rays. It can be projected onto a screen.
Magnification: The ratio of the height of an object's image to the height of the object itself when viewed through a concave mirror.
"Concave Mirrors" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.