Module 27
Viewing the Infinite

Mirrors are smooth surfaces where light rays reflect at an angle equal to the angle of incidence. The mirrors we use to see our image reflect visible light rays. Mirrors are usually made by depositing silver on a polished surface such as glass.

If you place an object between two parallel mirrors, pairs of images appear, repeating infinitely. Each pair consists of the images of the two faces of the object facing the mirrors. The pairs of images are more evident if you use an object with differently colored faces and place it closer to one of the mirrors.

In this exhibit, there is a space between two parallel mirrors and a hole in one of them for you to peek through. Ask a friend to stand between the two mirrors, look through the hole, and see the pairs of images replicating to infinity.

What happens if the mirrors are not perfectly parallel?