Mirror Formula
The distance of the position of an object on the principal axis from the pole of a spherical mirror is known as object distance. It is denoted by u. The distance of the position of the image of an object on the principal axis from the pole of a spherical mirror is known as the image distance. It is denoted by v.
The relation between v and f of a spherical mirror is known as the mirror formula.
It is given by,
1 / Object Distance + 1 / Image Distance = 1 / Focal Length
or
1/u + 1/v = 1/f
where
- u is the object distance
- v is the image distance and
- f is the focal length of the mirror.
Sign Convention for Spherical Mirrors
Sign Convention for Spherical Mirrors: While studying the reflection of light by spherical mirrors and the formation of images by spherical mirrors, a set of sign conventions are needed to learn that is required to measure the focal length, the distance of the object or image from the mirror, and the magnification of the mirror.
Before, understanding the concept of sign conventions for spherical mirrors first discuss some commonly used terms in a spherical mirror.
Table of Content
- Commonly Used Terms in Spherical Mirrors
- Sign Convention for Spherical Mirrors
- Important Points to Remember
- Mirror Formula
- Magnification (or Linear magnification)
- Solved Examples on Sign Conventions for Spherical Mirrors