An object is placed between infinity and the pole of a convex mirror. Draw a ray diagram and also state the position, the relative size and the nature of the image formed.

Q: An object is placed between infinity and the pole of a convex mirror. Draw a ray diagram and also state the position, the relative size and the nature of the image formed.

When an object is placed between infinity and the pole ($P$) of a convex mirror, the image is formed behind the mirror, between the pole ($P$) and the focus ($F$). **Characteristics of the image:** 1. **Position:** Behind the mirror, between $P$ and $F$. 2. **Relative Size:** Diminished (smaller than the object). 3. **Nature:** Virtual and erect.

Light — Reflection and Refraction

Image Formation by Spherical Mirrors

Official Answer

When an object is placed between infinity and the pole ( $P$ ) of a convex mirror, the image is formed behind the mirror, between the pole ( $P$ ) and the focus ( $F$ ).

Characteristics of the image:

Position: Behind the mirror, between $P$ and $F$ .
Relative Size: Diminished (smaller than the object).
Nature: Virtual and erect.

Behind the mirrorBetween P and FDiminishedVirtualErect

Marking Scheme

1Correct ray diagram with arrows showing direction (1.5 marks)
2Stating position (Between P and F behind mirror) (0.5 marks)
3Stating relative size (Diminished) (0.5 marks)
4Stating nature (Virtual and erect) (0.5 marks)

Hint

Remember that a convex mirror always produces a virtual, erect, and diminished image for any real object position.

Quick Oral Answer

A convex mirror always forms a virtual, erect, and diminished image when the object is placed anywhere between infinity and the pole.

Analysis & Explanation

In a convex mirror, regardless of the object's position (except at infinity), the rays of light diverge after reflection. When these divergent rays are produced backwards, they always intersect between the pole and the focus. Because the rays do not actually meet, the image is virtual. Since the intersection occurs above the principal axis, the image is erect.

Common Mistakes

1Drawing a concave mirror instead of a convex one.
2Forgetting to put arrows on the light rays.
3Placing the image in front of the mirror.

Interesting Facts

Convex mirrors are used as rear-view mirrors in vehicles because they give a wider field of view and always form an erect image.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many marks does this question carry in CBSE Class 10 Science 2011?

This question carries 3 marks in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2011 examination.

Which chapter does this question come from in Science?

This question is from the chapter "Light — Reflection and Refraction" in the CBSE Class 10 Science syllabus.

What topic does this question cover in Science?

This question covers the topic "Image Formation by Spherical Mirrors" from CBSE Class 10 Science.

What type of question is this in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2011 paper?

This is a Short Answer question from Section A in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2011 paper.