Question

Which of the following is the mirror formula?

• A. $\dfrac{1}{v} - \dfrac{1}{u} = \dfrac{1}{f}$
• B. $\dfrac{1}{f} + \dfrac{1}{u} = \dfrac{1}{v}$
• C. $\dfrac{1}{f} - \dfrac{1}{v} = \dfrac{1}{u}$
• D. $\dfrac{1}{f} = \dfrac{1}{v} + \dfrac{1}{u}$

Hint:

Always use sign convention: distances measured against incoming light are negative, along light are positive.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The mirror formula is a fundamental equation in optics that relates the focal length (f), the distance of the object from the mirror (u), and the distance of the image from the mirror (v). The correct mirror formula is given by:

$\dfrac{1}{f} = \dfrac{1}{v} + \dfrac{1}{u}$

This equation is derived based on the principles of reflection for mirror surfaces, being crucial for understanding image formation in concave and convex mirrors. It allows calculation of any one of the three variables if the other two are known, hence providing a comprehensive tool for optical analysis.