- Sections
- A. General Materials & Mathematics
- B. Statics
- C. Kinematics & Dynamics
- D. Rotational Mechanics
- E. Gravitation & Astronomy
- F. Fluid Mechanics
- G. Vibrations & Mechanical Waves
- H. Sound
- I. Thermodynamics
- J. Electrostatics & Magnetostatics
- K. Electromagnetic Principles
- L. Geometrical Optics
- M. Wave Optics
- N. Spectra & Color
- O. Vision
- P. Modern Physics
L3-19. Penny And Parabolic Mirrors
Purpose
Classic illusion of penny levitating above a pair of parabolic concave mirrors.
Equipment
Penny and parabolic mirror illusion.
Images
Description
This commercial apparatus forms a real image of a penny glued to the bottom mirror. Two concave parabolic mirrors with the correct focal length and spacing create an image of the penny levitating on the opening of the upper mirror. The illusion can be viewed within a limited angle, so it is most effective for individual observation. A ray drawing is included which shows how the image is produced.
References
Lecture Demonstrations Ray Diagram for Parabolic Mirrors. ◙Catalog Description, Opti-Thermal Imager. ◙Supplementary Information on Illusion Device, "Reality or Illusion?" ◙Pamphlet, "Mirage" Demonstration. ◙Andrzej Sieradzan, Teaching Geometrical Optics with the "Optic Mirage," TPT 28, 534-536 (1990).
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See pagesl1. light sources & light rays
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See pagesl2. plane mirrors
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See pagesl3. curved mirrors
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See pagesl4. refraction
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See pagesl5. total internal reflection
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See pagesl6. lenses
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See pagesl7. optical instruments
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See pagesl1. light sources & light rays
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See pagesl2. plane mirrors
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See pagesl3. curved mirrors
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See pagesl4. refraction
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See pagesl5. total internal reflection
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See pagesl6. lenses
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See pagesl7. optical instruments