Mirrors are everywhere, yet most people don’t really understand how they work. We look into them daily, but have you ever wondered—why do mirrors reflect?
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How Do Mirrors Actually Work |
The Science of Reflection
Mirrors work due to a simple law of physics: the Law of Reflection. When light hits a smooth surface, it bounces back at the same angle. This is why a mirror shows an almost perfect reflection of whatever is in front of it.
Why Do Mirrors Reverse Left and Right?
A common myth is that mirrors “flip” left and right. But in reality, they don’t flip anything! They reflect exactly what’s in front of them. The reason it looks flipped is because we’re used to seeing ourselves from a different perspective.
Why Are Mirrors Silver?
Most mirrors have a thin layer of aluminum or silver behind a sheet of glass. These metals reflect almost all the light that hits them, creating a clear image.
Mirrors and Optical Illusions
Mirrors can trick our brains. Two mirrors at an angle create an illusion of infinite reflections. Some mirrors, like funhouse mirrors, distort images by curving the reflective surface.
The Universe as a Mirror?
Interestingly, some physicists believe the universe itself could behave like a mirror in certain conditions. Some theories even suggest parallel worlds existing as mirror images of ours!
Final Thought
A mirror isn’t just glass—it’s a portal of physics, perception, and even mystery. So next time you look in the mirror, remember—it’s showing you more than just your reflection.
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