Use the ray diagram simulator in mirror mode to describe images using LOST and recommend the best mirror for real-world situations.
Lesson Focus
In this lesson you will compare plane, concave, and convex mirrors. The simulator does the drawing for you. Your job is to observe carefully, describe the image using LOST, and decide which mirror should be used in each situation.
Section 1Guided LOST Practice~20 min
Reminder: LOST
Location: where is the image compared to the mirror?
Orientation: upright or inverted?
Size: smaller, same size, or larger than the object?
Type: real or virtual?
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Open the Ray Diagram Simulator
Switch to Mirror mode. Use the mirror type buttons to choose plane, concave, or convex. Drag the object or change the distance slider and record what happens.
Set up the sim like this
Turn on mirror mode, keep labels visible, and leave both “Show principal rays” and “Show image” turned on.
1
Select Mirror, then choose Plane.
2
Set the object distance to about 20 cm and observe the image.
3
Use LOST to describe what you see in the table below.
4
Repeat for the two independent observations that follow.
Mirror Setup
Location
Orientation
Size
Type
Plane mirror, object about 20 cm away
Concave mirror, object farther than F
Convex mirror, object at any distance
Question 1
For the plane mirror setup, explain why the image is useful for everyday viewing.
Question 2
Compare the concave and convex mirror observations. What is one important difference between their images?
Section 2Compare All Three Mirror Types~20 min
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Instructions
Use the sim to test all three mirror types at a few different object distances. Then summarize the general pattern for each mirror in the chart below.
Mirror Type
General Image Pattern
Best Use
Plane
Concave
Convex
Question 3
Why is a concave mirror more flexible than a plane or convex mirror?
Think about how its image can change depending on where the object is placed.
Section 3Choose the Best Mirror~30 min
Scenario 1
Makeup Mirror
A person wants a mirror that makes their face appear larger and upright when they stand close to it so they can apply makeup accurately.
Scenario 2
Convenience Store Security Mirror
A store owner wants to see as much of the store as possible at one time, even if the images appear smaller.
Scenario 3
Car Side Mirror
A driver wants to see more of the lane beside and behind the car to reduce blind spots.
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What to include
For each scenario, name the mirror type, justify the choice, and describe the image using LOST.
Scenario 1
Which mirror should be used for the makeup mirror? Explain your choice using LOST.
Scenario 2
Which mirror should be used for the convenience store security mirror? Explain your choice using LOST.
Scenario 3
Which mirror should be used for the car side mirror? Explain your choice using LOST.
Final Reflection
Why is it better to choose a mirror based on the image you need rather than just picking the strongest-looking mirror?
Finished?
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