What is the appearance of an image in a shiny, flat mirror?

Study for the Key Stage 3 (KS3) Waves Test. Strengthen concepts with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Prepare effectively for your exam!

A shiny, flat mirror produces a clear image due to the way light interacts with its smooth surface. When light rays strike the mirror, they reflect off in a uniform manner, preserving the details of the object's appearance. This phenomenon is known as specular reflection. As a result, the reflected image maintains the characteristics of the original object, such as color and clarity, allowing it to appear sharp and well-defined.

In contrast, a distorted image might occur in mirrors with irregular surfaces that cause uneven reflection, while a blurred image would result from factors such as a dirty mirror or poor quality. The option suggesting that no image is produced would imply the absence of a reflective surface, which is clearly not the case with a shiny, flat mirror. Thus, a flat mirror consistently provides a clear representation of whatever is placed in front of it.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy