Problem Description:
The image shows a person standing in front of a mirror in three different scenarios (a), (b), and (c). The task is to analyze how the reflection of the person changes based on the size and position of the mirror. The goal is to understand the principles of reflection and how they are affected by the mirror's dimensions.
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Solution Explanation:
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Key Concepts:
1.
Reflection Principle: When light reflects off a mirror, the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection. This means that the reflected image appears as if it is coming from behind the mirror at an equal distance.
2.
Mirror Size and Reflection: The size of the mirror determines how much of the person's image can be seen in the reflection. If the mirror is smaller than the person, only the portion of the person that is within the mirror's field of view will be reflected.
3.
Position of the Mirror: The position of the mirror relative to the person affects which part of the person's body is visible in the reflection.
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Analysis of Each Scenario:
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(a)
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Mirror Position: The mirror is positioned vertically and covers the upper half of the person's body.
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Reflection Observed: Only the upper half of the person's body (from the head to the waist) is reflected in the mirror. The lower half (legs) is not visible because the mirror does not extend low enough.
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Explanation: Since the mirror is shorter than the person and only covers the upper half, only that portion of the person is reflected.
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(b)
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Mirror Position: The mirror is positioned vertically and covers the entire height of the person.
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Reflection Observed: The entire body of the person is reflected in the mirror.
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Explanation: Because the mirror is tall enough to cover the full height of the person, the entire body is visible in the reflection.
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(c)
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Mirror Position: The mirror is positioned horizontally and covers the lower half of the person's body.
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Reflection Observed: Only the lower half of the person's body (from the waist down) is reflected in the mirror. The upper half (head and torso) is not visible because the mirror is horizontal and does not reflect the upper part.
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Explanation: The horizontal orientation of the mirror means it only reflects the part of the person that is directly in front of it. In this case, it reflects the legs but not the upper body.
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Conclusion:
The reflection of a person in a mirror depends on both the size and the orientation of the mirror:
1. A vertical mirror that is shorter than the person will only reflect the portion of the person that is within its height.
2. A vertical mirror that is as tall as the person will reflect the entire body.
3. A horizontal mirror will reflect only the part of the person that is directly in front of it, regardless of the person's height.
This demonstrates how the geometry of the mirror influences what is visible in the reflection.
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Final Answer:
\[
\boxed{\text{The reflection depends on the size and orientation of the mirror.}}
\]
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of body planes worksheet.
