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3.2.1a Reflection of light

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Question 2

A student investigates the reflection of light using a plane mirror and pins on a ray-trace sheet.

a.

The student draws an incident ray line and places two pins, P1P_1P1​ and P2P_2P2​, along it. State the minimum recommended distance between P1P_1P1​ and P2P_2P2​ and explain why this distance is necessary for an accurate ray-trace.

[2]
b.

The student sets the angle of incidence to i=55∘i = 55^\circi=55∘. (i) Calculate the expected angle, θ\thetaθ, between the incident ray and the reflecting surface of the mirror. (ii) State the expected angle of reflection, rrr.

[2]
c.

Suggest two practical precautions that the student should take when performing this ray-trace experiment to ensure the accuracy of their drawings and alignments.

[2]
d.

Suggest one practical reason why the measured angle of reflection might not perfectly match the theoretical prediction from the law of reflection, even when the experiment is performed carefully.

[1]
Markscheme

3.2.1a Reflection of light Questions

  1. IGCSE
  2. /Physics
  3. /3.2.1a Reflection of light

48 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 3.2.1a Reflection of light. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.

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