Physics 2003 JAMB Past Questions - Question 21: If an object is placed between two parallel plane mirrors with their reflecting surfaces facing each other, how many images of the object will be formed?

Correct Answer

A

Explanation

the number of images to be observed will be infinite.When an object is placed between two parallel plane mirrors with their reflecting surfaces facing each other, multiple images of the object can be formed. The number of images depends on the angle at which the object is positioned between the mirrors and the distance between the mirrors.

If the object is placed perpendicular to the mirrors (i.e., at a 90-degree angle), an infinite number of images will be formed, and they will appear to extend to infinity in both directions.

If the object is tilted at an angle θ with respect to the mirrors, the number of images can be calculated using the formula:

Number of Images = 360° / (180° - θ)

In this formula, 360° represents a full circle, and 180° is the angle between the two mirrors.

For example, if the object is placed at a 45-degree angle between the mirrors:

Number of Images = 360° / (180° - 45°) = 360° / 135° = 2.67

In this case, you would see approximately 2.67 images, but in practice, you'll see a finite number of images due to practical limitations. The images will be arranged symmetrically on both sides of the mirrors, and the actual number may be limited by the size and spacing of the mirrors.

Keep in mind that these images are virtual images and do not represent real, physical objects. They are created by the multiple reflections of light between the mirrors.