Light Reflection and Mirrors

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding light reflection, the ray model of light, and types of mirrors based on the lecture notes provided.

What is reflection of light?

Reflection is the bouncing of light from a surface.

What does a mirror allow us to see?

A mirror allows us to see our reflection because light rays bounce off the mirror and travel back to our eyes.

What do we call the straight lines along which light travels?

Light travels in straight lines called rays.

What occurs when light bounces off a surface?

Reflection occurs when light bounces off a surface.

What is absorption in terms of light?

Absorption happens when materials take in light, often converting it to heat.

What is transmission when discussing light?

Transmission is when light passes through a transparent material.

What is a ray diagram?

A ray diagram represents the possible paths light can take from a source or an object to an observer or screen.

What is the law of reflection?

The law of reflection states that the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.

What does 'angle of incidence' refer to?

The angle at which the incoming light ray hits the mirror.

What happens to light rays at a plane mirror?

When light rays hit the surface of a plane mirror, they reflect off at the same angle at which they arrive.

List one characteristic of an image formed by a plane mirror.

The image is upright, meaning it is the same way up as the object.

What type of image does a concave mirror produce when the object is placed within the focal length?

A virtual and upright image.

What type of mirror is known to spread light rays apart?

A convex mirror.

What is the focal point in a concave mirror?

A point at which waves or rays meet or originate after reflecting from the mirror.

What describes the characteristics of a virtual image?

A virtual image appears to be behind the mirror and is formed by reflected rays that only appear to meet.

What type of images do convex mirrors always produce?

Convex mirrors always produce a virtual, upright, and diminished image.

Define 'converging mirror'.

A concave mirror is called a converging mirror because it brings light rays together.

What about 'diverging mirror'?

A convex mirror is called a diverging mirror because it spreads light rays apart.

What conclusion can be drawn when light rays diverge from a concave mirror?

They converge at a point called the focal point.

What happens when light rays hit a plane mirror at a specific angle?

The angle of reflection equals the angle of incidence.