Project Notes

This is a simulation of light coming from a single point on an object and creating an image (real or virtual) in a concave mirror. The three rays used in the diagram follow the rules for light encountering a concave mirror. 1.) Light rays travelling parallel along the principle axis reflect through the focal point of the mirror. 2.) Light that passes first through the focal point reflects off the mirror and travels parallel to the principle axis. 3.) Light that passes through the radius of curvature of the mirror (2f) reflects straight back through the radius of curvature. Set the object distance and focal length of the mirror with the sliders, and then press the green flag to run the sim. Press the space bar to reset.