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Chapter 9: Problem 21

What is the ideal shape of concave mirrors used in telescopes?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: The ideal shape of concave mirrors used in telescopes is a parabolic shape because it focuses all incoming parallel light rays on a single focal point, reducing distortion and aberration and providing clear and precise magnified images.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Purpose of Concave Mirrors

In telescopes, concave mirrors are used primarily to focus incoming parallel light rays onto a single point, the focal point. This allows for a clear, magnified image of distant objects.
02

Types of Mirrors

There are different types of mirrors, but concave mirrors are the most suitable for telescopes. A concave mirror has its reflecting surface bulging inwards, creating a curve that resembles the interior of a sphere.
03

Finding the Ideal Shape

The ideal shape of a concave mirror used in a telescope must focus parallel light rays to a single point, which means that it should have a parabolic shape. A parabolic mirror, when compared to a spherical mirror, eliminates spherical aberration, a distortion that occurs when parallel rays do not focus on a single point due to the curvature of the mirror. By using a parabolic mirror, all incoming parallel light rays are focused on a single focal point, providing a clear and sharp image.
04

Conclusion

The ideal shape of concave mirrors used in telescopes is a parabolic shape, as it focuses all incoming parallel light rays on a single focal point. This shape significantly reduces distortion and aberration, allowing for clear and precise magnified images.

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