Physics 5054 · O Level · Reflection of light

Reflection of light — practice question

A student examines the light reflected by a plane mirror.
(a(i))[1]

From point A, draw a line making $30^\circ$ anticlockwise from AB. Make it longer than $10\,\text{cm}$. Put the label C at the outer end.

(a(ii))[1]

Place point D on AB, $4.0\,\text{cm}$ from A. Construct a perpendicular to AB through D, and ensure it also crosses the line AC drawn in part (a)(i). Mark the point where the line through D cuts AC as E.

(b(i))[1]

Construct a normal to line AC at point E.

(b(ii))[1]

Mark the angle between DE and the normal you have drawn as $\theta$. Measure and write down angle $\theta$.

(b(iii))[1]

Explain how points $P_1$ and $P_2$ are selected so that the reflected line is as accurate as possible.

(c(i))[1]

In Fig. 2.2, draw a line from point A’ at $60^\circ$ anticlockwise to line A’B’. The line must be longer than $10\,\text{cm}$. Put the label C’ on the end of the line.

(c(ii))[1]

Mark point D’ on A’B’, $4.0\,\text{cm}$ from A’. Draw a line perpendicular to A’B’ through D’. This line must also cross A’C’. Label the point where the line through D’ cuts A’C’ as E’. Draw a normal to line A’C’ at point E’.

(c(iii))[1]

Write $\alpha$ on the angle between D’E’ and the normal you have drawn. Describe one practical precaution you use to make sure the normal is drawn accurately.

(c(iv))[1]

Measure and note angle $\alpha$.

(d)[1]

Theory predicts that $\alpha = 2\theta$. State whether your results back up this theory. Give a reason for your answer.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: A line at 30^{\circ} \pm 1^{\circ} to AB from A, exceeding 10 cm, with C marked at the end

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