How Do Mirrors Actually Work?

Mirrors make you look back at yourself because they bounce light. When you stand in front of a mirror, the light from your face goes to the mirror and comes right back to your eyes. It's like playing catch, you throw the light, and it bounces back so you can see yourself clearly.

Take the quiz →

Examples

When you look in a mirror at home, your face is reflected back to you as if it's on the other side of the glass.
If you wave your hand in front of the mirror, the image of your hand also waves, just like you're dancing with yourself.
A spoon can act like a mirror when it’s shiny enough, and you’ll see your face distorted but still recognizable.

Ask a question

Discussion

Recent activity

Categories: Physics · Reflection,Light,Optics