Light - Reflection and Refraction — NCERT Solutions | Class 10 Science | Academia Aeternum
Ch 9  ·  Q–
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Class 10 Science Exercise NCERT Solutions Olympiad Board Exam
Chapter 9

Light - Reflection and Refraction

Step-by-step NCERT solutions with stress–strain analysis and exam-oriented hints for Boards, JEE & NEET.

17 Questions
50-65 min Ideal time
Q1 Now at
Q1
NUMERIC3 marks
Which one of the following materials cannot be used to make a lens?
(a) Water
(b) Glass
(c) Plastic
(d) Clay
Relevant Theory

A lens is an optical device made of a transparent material that refracts (bends) light rays passing through it to form images. The key requirement for any material to be used as a lens is:

  • It must allow light to pass through it (transparency).
  • It should have a uniform refractive index to bend light properly.
  • It must be optically homogeneous for clear image formation.
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Recall the definition of a lens.
  • Step 2: Identify the key property required → transparency.
  • Step 3: Check each option for transparency.
  • Step 4: Select the material that does NOT allow light to pass.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: A lens must be made of a material that allows light to pass through it (transparent material).

Step 2: Check each option:

  • Water → Transparent, allows refraction of light ✔
  • Glass → Transparent, commonly used for lenses ✔
  • Plastic → Transparent (in optical grade), used in lenses ✔
  • Clay → Opaque, does not allow light to pass ✖

Step 3: Since clay does not transmit light, it cannot refract light and hence cannot form images.

Final Answer: (d) Clay

Conceptual Ray Interaction
Biconvex Lens: Converging Action Refractive Index (n) > 1.0
Significance for Exams
  • Frequently asked conceptual MCQ in board exams (1 mark).
  • Important for understanding the basic requirement of optical devices.
  • Helps in competitive exams (NTSE, Olympiads, JEE Foundation) where material properties and optics are tested.
  • Builds foundation for deeper topics like refraction through lenses and image formation.
↑ Top
1 / 17  ·  6%
Q2 →
Q2
NUMERIC3 marks
The image formed by a concave mirror is observed to be virtual, erect and larger than the object. Where should be the position of the object?
(a) Between the principal focus and the centre of curvature
(b) At the centre of curvature
(c) Beyond the centre of curvature
(d) Between the pole of the mirror and its principal focus.
Relevant Theory

A concave mirror forms different types of images depending on the position of the object relative to the pole (P), focus (F), and centre of curvature (C).

  • When the object is placed between pole (P) and focus (F), reflected rays diverge and appear to come from behind the mirror.
  • Hence, the image formed is virtual, erect, and magnified.
  • Such images cannot be obtained on a screen because they are formed by apparent intersection of rays.
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Identify image characteristics → virtual, erect, enlarged.
  • Step 2: Recall standard image formation cases of concave mirror.
  • Step 3: Match the given characteristics with correct object position.
  • Step 4: Select the correct option.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Given image characteristics:

  • Nature → Virtual
  • Orientation → Erect
  • Size → Enlarged (magnified)

Step 2: Recall concave mirror cases:

Object Position Nature Orientation Size
Between P and F Virtual Erect Enlarged
Between F and C Real Inverted Enlarged
At C Real Inverted Same size
Beyond C Real Inverted Smaller

Step 3: Only the case between pole (P) and focus (F) satisfies all given conditions.

Final Answer: (d) Between the pole of the mirror and its principal focus.

Ray Diagram (Object between P and F)
P F C Object (AB) Virtual Image (A'B') Concave Mirror: Case VI
Significance for Exams
  • Very important conceptual MCQ for CBSE board exams (frequently repeated).
  • Forms the basis for ray diagram questions (2–3 marks).
  • Essential for competitive exams like NTSE, Olympiads, and JEE Foundation.
  • Helps in understanding real-life applications such as shaving mirrors and makeup mirrors.
← Q1
2 / 17  ·  12%
Q3 →
Q3
NUMERIC3 marks
Where should an object be placed in front of a convex lens to get a real image of the size of the object?
(a) At the principal focus of the lens
(b) At twice the focal length
(c) At infinity
(d) Between the optical centre of the lens and its principal focus.
Relevant Theory

A convex lens (converging lens) forms different types of images depending on the object position. The size and nature of the image are determined using ray diagrams and magnification.

  • When an object is placed at twice the focal length (2F₁), the image is formed at 2F₂.
  • The image formed is real, inverted, and of the same size as the object.
  • Magnification \( m = \frac{h_i}{h_o} = 1 \) (in magnitude).
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Identify required image → real and same size.
  • Step 2: Recall standard convex lens image formation cases.
  • Step 3: Find the object position that gives magnification = 1.
  • Step 4: Match with given options.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Required image properties:

  • Nature → Real
  • Size → Same as object

Step 2: Use magnification relation:

\[ m = \frac{h_i}{h_o} \]

Step 3: For same size image:

\[ m = 1 \]

Step 4: From standard convex lens results:

  • At object position = 2F₁, image forms at 2F₂
  • Image is real, inverted, and same size

Step 5: Match with options:

Correct option is (b) At twice the focal length.

Final Answer: (b) At twice the focal length

Ray Diagram (Object at 2F₁)
O F₁ F₂ 2F₁ 2F₂ Object (AB) Image (A'B') Real, Inverted, Same Size Convex Lens: Object at 2F₁
Significance for Exams
  • Very common CBSE board MCQ and short-answer concept.
  • Important for ray diagram drawing questions (3 marks).
  • Helps in solving numerical problems using lens formula and magnification.
  • Frequently tested in NTSE, Olympiads, and JEE Foundation exams.
← Q2
3 / 17  ·  18%
Q4 →
Q4
NUMERIC3 marks
A spherical mirror and a thin spherical lens have each a focal length of –15 cm. The mirror and the lens are likely to be
(a) both concave.
(b) both convex
(c) the mirror is concave and the lens is convex.
(d) the mirror is convex, but the lens is concave.
Relevant Theory

In optics, the New Cartesian Sign Convention is used to determine the nature of mirrors and lenses. According to this convention:

  • All distances are measured from the pole (mirror) or optical centre (lens).
  • Distances measured in the direction of incident light are taken as positive.
  • Distances measured opposite to the direction of incident light are taken as negative.

For Mirrors:

  • Concave mirror → focal length is negative
  • Convex mirror → focal length is positive

For Lenses:

  • Convex lens (converging) → focal length is positive
  • Concave lens (diverging) → focal length is negative
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Note the given focal length (–15 cm).
  • Step 2: Apply sign convention separately for mirror and lens.
  • Step 3: Identify the nature based on sign.
  • Step 4: Match with the correct option.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Given focal length:

\[ f = -15 \text{ cm} \]

Step 2: For spherical mirror:

  • Negative focal length ⇒ mirror is concave

Step 3: For thin spherical lens:

  • Negative focal length ⇒ lens is concave (diverging lens)

Step 4: Combine both results:

  • Mirror → Concave
  • Lens → Concave

Final Answer: (a) both concave.

Conceptual Representation
Physics: Diverging Systems Concave Mirror (f < 0) F F Concave Lens (f < 0)
Significance for Exams
  • Very important MCQ based on sign convention in CBSE board exams.
  • Forms the foundation for solving numerical problems using mirror and lens formulas.
  • Frequently asked in NTSE, Olympiads, and JEE Foundation exams.
  • Helps avoid common mistakes related to sign convention in optics.
← Q3
4 / 17  ·  24%
Q5 →
Q5
NUMERIC3 marks
No matter how far you stand from a mirror, your image appears erect. The mirror is likely to be
(a) only plane.
(b) only concave.
(c) only convex.
(d) either plane or convex.
Relevant Theory

The nature of the image formed by a mirror depends on its type:

  • Plane mirror → Always forms virtual, erect, and same-sized images regardless of object distance.
  • Convex mirror → Always forms virtual, erect, and diminished images for all object positions.
  • Concave mirror → Forms:
    • Erect image only when object is between pole (P) and focus (F)
    • Inverted image for all other positions
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Identify key condition → image is always erect.
  • Step 2: Check which mirrors always produce erect images.
  • Step 3: Eliminate mirrors that sometimes produce inverted images.
  • Step 4: Choose correct option.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Given condition:

  • Image is always erect, irrespective of object distance.

Step 2: Analyze each type of mirror:

  • Plane mirror: Always forms erect images ✔
  • Convex mirror: Always forms erect images ✔
  • Concave mirror: Forms erect image only when object is between P and F, otherwise inverted ✖

Step 3: Eliminate concave mirror because it does not always produce erect images.

Step 4: Remaining possibilities:

  • Plane mirror
  • Convex mirror

Final Answer: (d) either plane or convex.

Conceptual Comparison
PLANE MIRROR (f = ∞) O I CONVEX MIRROR (f < 0) F O I
Significance for Exams
  • Common conceptual MCQ in CBSE board exams.
  • Tests understanding of image formation rules for mirrors.
  • Important for competitive exams like NTSE and Olympiads.
  • Helps in real-life applications such as rear-view mirrors (convex mirrors).
← Q4
5 / 17  ·  29%
Q6 →
Q6
NUMERIC3 marks
Which of the following lenses would you prefer to use while reading small letters found in a dictionary?
(a) A convex lens of focal length 50 cm.
(b) A concave lens of focal length 50 cm.
(c) A convex lens of focal length 5 cm.
(d) A concave lens of focal length 5 cm.
Relevant Theory

To read small letters clearly, we need a magnified (enlarged) image. This is achieved using a convex lens, also known as a converging lens.

  • A convex lens produces a virtual, erect, and magnified image when the object is placed between the optical centre (O) and principal focus (F).
  • A concave lens always produces a virtual but diminished (smaller) image, so it is not useful for magnification.
  • Magnification increases when the focal length is smaller.
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Identify requirement → magnified image for small letters.
  • Step 2: Choose lens type that magnifies → convex lens.
  • Step 3: Compare focal lengths → smaller focal length gives higher magnification.
  • Step 4: Select the best option.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Requirement:

  • We need to read small letters → image must be magnified.

Step 2: Choose correct type of lens:

  • Convex lens → produces magnified image ✔
  • Concave lens → always produces diminished image ✖

Step 3: Compare focal lengths of convex lenses:

  • Focal length = 50 cm → low magnification
  • Focal length = 5 cm → high magnification ✔

Step 4: Therefore, the best lens is:

Final Answer: (c) A convex lens of focal length 5 cm.

Ray Diagram (Magnifying Glass)
Convex Lens: Magnifying Glass Case F1 O F2 Object Virtual Image
Significance for Exams
  • Frequently asked application-based MCQ in CBSE exams.
  • Important for understanding magnification and optical instruments.
  • Forms the basis for questions on microscopes and magnifying glasses.
  • Useful for NTSE, Olympiads, and foundational competitive exams.
← Q5
6 / 17  ·  35%
Q7 →
Q7
NUMERIC3 marks
We wish to obtain an erect image of an object, using a concave mirror of focal length 15 cm. What should be the range of distances of the object from the mirror? What is the nature of the image? Is the image larger or smaller than the object? Draw a ray diagram to show the image formation.
Relevant Theory

A concave mirror can form both real and virtual images depending on object position.

  • When the object is placed between pole (P) and focus (F), the image formed is:
    • Virtual
    • Erect
    • Magnified (larger than object)
  • The image is formed behind the mirror due to apparent divergence of reflected rays.
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Identify condition → erect image.
  • Step 2: Recall position for erect image in concave mirror.
  • Step 3: Express object distance range using focal length.
  • Step 4: State nature and size of image.
  • Step 5: Draw ray diagram.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Given focal length:

\[ f = -15 \text{ cm} \] (negative sign indicates concave mirror)

Step 2: For erect image in a concave mirror:

  • Object must be placed between pole (P) and focus (F).

Step 3: Express object distance range:

\[ 0 < |u| < 15 \text{ cm} \]

Using sign convention:

\[ -15 \text{ cm} < u < 0 \]

Step 4: Nature of image:

  • Virtual
  • Erect
  • Formed behind the mirror

Step 5: Size of image:

  • Image is larger (magnified) than the object.

Final Answer: Object should be placed between P and F (0 < |u| < 15 cm). Image formed is virtual, erect, and larger than the object.

Ray Diagram (Object between P and F)
Significance for Exams
  • Very important long-answer question for CBSE board exams (3–5 marks with diagram).
  • Tests conceptual clarity of image formation in concave mirrors.
  • Ray diagram drawing is frequently evaluated strictly in board marking schemes.
  • Important for competitive exams like NTSE, Olympiads, and JEE Foundation.
← Q6
7 / 17  ·  41%
Q8 →
Q8
NUMERIC3 marks
Name the type of mirror used in the following situations.
(a) Headlights of a car.
(b) Side/rear-view mirror of a vehicle.
(c) Solar furnace. Support your answer with a reason.
Relevant Theory

The choice of mirror in practical applications depends on how it reflects light:

  • Concave mirror: Converges parallel rays to a focus and can also produce parallel rays when the source is at focus.
  • Convex mirror: Diverges light rays and provides a wide field of view with diminished images.
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Identify requirement of each application.
  • Step 2: Match with mirror properties (converging/diverging).
  • Step 3: Justify with ray behavior.
Step-by-Step Solution

(a) Headlights of a Car

Step 1: Requirement → Strong beam of light travelling long distance.

Step 2: Property needed → Parallel rays.

Step 3: A concave mirror produces parallel rays when the light source is placed at its focus.

Answer: Concave Mirror

(b) Side/Rear-View Mirror

Step 1: Requirement → Wide field of view to see more area behind.

Step 2: Property needed → Diverging rays and upright image.

Step 3: A convex mirror provides a wider field of view and forms diminished, erect images.

Answer: Convex Mirror

(c) Solar Furnace

Step 1: Requirement → Concentrate sunlight at one point to generate heat.

Step 2: Property needed → Converging rays.

Step 3: A concave mirror converges parallel rays (sunlight) at its focus.

Answer: Concave Mirror

Conceptual Ray Diagrams
(a) Car Headlight F (b) Rear-View Mirror Wide View (c) Solar Furnace Focus (Heat)
Summary Table
Application Type of Mirror Reason
Headlights of a car Concave Produces parallel beam for long-distance illumination
Side/rear-view mirror Convex Provides wide field of view with erect image
Solar furnace Concave Converges sunlight to a focal point for heating
Significance for Exams
  • Frequently asked application-based question in CBSE board exams (2–3 marks).
  • Tests conceptual understanding of mirror properties.
  • Important for NTSE, Olympiads, and competitive exams.
  • Helps relate physics concepts to real-life applications.
← Q7
8 / 17  ·  47%
Q9 →
Q9
NUMERIC3 marks
One-half of a convex lens is covered with a black paper. Will this lens produce a complete image of the object? Verify your answer experimentally. Explain your observations.
Relevant Theory

A convex lens forms an image by refraction of light rays passing through all parts of the lens. Each portion of the lens contributes to the formation of the entire image.

  • Even if part of the lens is blocked, the remaining portion still receives light from the whole object.
  • However, fewer rays pass through → image brightness decreases.
  • Image size and position remain unchanged.
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Understand how a lens forms an image.
  • Step 2: Analyze effect of blocking part of the lens.
  • Step 3: Predict changes in image formation.
  • Step 4: Verify through experiment.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Consider a convex lens forming an image of an object.

Step 2: Cover half of the lens with black paper.

Step 3: Observation:

  • The image is still complete.
  • The image appears less bright (fainter).

Step 4: Explanation:

  • Each part of the lens forms the entire image.
  • When half the lens is covered, fewer light rays contribute → brightness decreases.
  • No part of the image disappears because the uncovered portion still receives light from the whole object.

Step 5: Conclusion:

A complete image is formed, but it is less bright.

Experimental Verification
  • Take a convex lens and form a clear image of an object on a screen.
  • Now cover half of the lens with black paper.
  • Observe the image on the screen.
  • You will notice that the image remains complete but becomes dim.
Significance for Exams
  • Very important conceptual and experimental question for CBSE board exams (3 marks).
  • Tests understanding of image formation by lenses.
  • Frequently asked in practical-based questions.
  • Important for NTSE and Olympiad exams.
← Q8
9 / 17  ·  53%
Q10 →
Q10
NUMERIC3 marks
An object 5 cm in length is held 25 cm away from a converging lens of focal length 10 cm. Draw the ray diagram and find the position, size and nature of the image formed.
Relevant Theory

Image formation by a thin lens is governed by the lens formula and magnification:

\[ \frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{v} - \frac{1}{u} \]

\[ m = \frac{h'}{h} = \frac{v}{u} \]

  • Sign convention must be followed strictly.
  • Negative magnification → inverted image.
  • |m| < 1 → image is smaller than object.
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Write given quantities with proper sign.
  • Step 2: Apply lens formula to find image distance (v).
  • Step 3: Use magnification to find image height.
  • Step 4: Determine nature using sign of v and m.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Given Data

\[ h = 5 \text{ cm}, \quad u = -25 \text{ cm}, \quad f = +10 \text{ cm} \]

Step 2: Apply Lens Formula

\[ \frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{v} - \frac{1}{u} \]

\[ \frac{1}{10} = \frac{1}{v} - \left(\frac{1}{-25}\right) \]

\[ \frac{1}{10} = \frac{1}{v} + \frac{1}{25} \]

\[ \frac{1}{v} = \frac{1}{10} - \frac{1}{25} \]

\[ \frac{1}{v} = \frac{5 - 2}{50} = \frac{3}{50} \]

\[ v = \frac{50}{3} \approx 16.67 \text{ cm} \]

Step 3: Magnification

\[ m = \frac{v}{u} = \frac{50/3}{-25} \]

\[ m = -\frac{2}{3} \]

Step 4: Image Height

\[ m = \frac{h'}{h} \]

\[ -\frac{2}{3} = \frac{h'}{5} \]

\[ h' = -\frac{10}{3} \approx -3.33 \text{ cm} \]

Step 5: Interpretation

  • v is positive → image is formed on the other side → real image
  • m is negative → image is inverted
  • |m| < 1 → image is smaller (diminished)

Final Answer:
Image distance = 16.67 cm
Image height = 3.33 cm (inverted)
Nature = Real, inverted, and diminished

Ray Diagram
O F₁ 2F₁ F₂ 2F₂ Object (5cm) Image u = -25 cm | f = +10 cm | v = +16.7 cm
Significance for Exams
  • Very important numerical problem for CBSE board exams (3–4 marks).
  • Combines lens formula, magnification, and sign convention.
  • Ray diagram is often required for full marks.
  • Frequently asked in NTSE, Olympiads, and JEE Foundation exams.
← Q9
10 / 17  ·  59%
Q11 →
Q11
NUMERIC3 marks
A concave lens of focal length 15 cm forms an image 10 cm from the lens. How far is the object placed from the lens? Draw the ray diagram.
Relevant Theory

For a thin lens, image formation is governed by:

\[ \frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{v} - \frac{1}{u} \]

\[ m = \frac{v}{u} \]

  • For a concave lens, focal length is negative.
  • Image formed is always virtual, erect, and diminished.
  • Image distance (v) is negative (same side as object).
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Write given values using sign convention.
  • Step 2: Apply lens formula.
  • Step 3: Solve for object distance (u).
  • Step 4: Verify nature using magnification.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Given Data

\[ f = -15 \text{ cm}, \quad v = -10 \text{ cm} \]

Step 2: Lens Formula

\[ \frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{v} - \frac{1}{u} \]

\[ \frac{1}{-15} = \frac{1}{-10} - \frac{1}{u} \]

Step 3: Rearranging:

\[ \frac{1}{u} = \frac{1}{-10} - \frac{1}{-15} \]

\[ \frac{1}{u} = -\frac{1}{10} + \frac{1}{15} \]

\[ \frac{1}{u} = \frac{-3 + 2}{30} = -\frac{1}{30} \]

\[ u = -30 \text{ cm} \]

Step 4: Magnification

\[ m = \frac{v}{u} = \frac{-10}{-30} = \frac{1}{3} \]

Step 5: Interpretation:

  • u is negative → object is in front of lens
  • m is positive → image is erect
  • |m| < 1 → image is diminished

Final Answer:
Object distance = 30 cm in front of the lens
Image is virtual, erect, and diminished

Ray Diagram (Concave Lens)
Concave Lens: u = -30cm, v = -10cm O F Object Image Distance Scale: 5px = 1cm | u = -30cm, v = -10cm, f = -15cm
Significance for Exams
  • Important numerical problem for CBSE board exams (3–4 marks).
  • Tests proper use of sign convention in lens formula.
  • Ray diagram is essential for full marks.
  • Frequently asked in NTSE, Olympiads, and foundation-level competitive exams.
← Q10
11 / 17  ·  65%
Q12 →
Q12
NUMERIC3 marks
An object is placed at a distance of 10 cm from a convex mirror of focal length 15 cm. Find the position and nature of the image.
Relevant Theory

For spherical mirrors, image formation is governed by the mirror formula:

\[ \frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{v} + \frac{1}{u} \]

Magnification:

\[ m = -\frac{v}{u} \]

  • Convex mirror → focal length is positive.
  • Image formed is always virtual, erect, and diminished.
  • Image distance (v) is positive (behind the mirror).
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Write given values using sign convention.
  • Step 2: Apply mirror formula.
  • Step 3: Solve for image distance (v).
  • Step 4: Use magnification to determine nature.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Given Data

\[ u = -10 \text{ cm}, \quad f = +15 \text{ cm} \]

Step 2: Apply Mirror Formula

\[ \frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{v} + \frac{1}{u} \]

\[ \frac{1}{15} = \frac{1}{v} + \left(\frac{1}{-10}\right) \]

\[ \frac{1}{15} = \frac{1}{v} - \frac{1}{10} \]

\[ \frac{1}{v} = \frac{1}{15} + \frac{1}{10} \]

\[ \frac{1}{v} = \frac{2 + 3}{30} = \frac{5}{30} = \frac{1}{6} \]

\[ v = 6 \text{ cm} \]

Step 3: Magnification

\[ m = -\frac{v}{u} = -\frac{6}{-10} = 0.6 \]

Step 4: Interpretation

  • v is positive → image formed behind the mirror → virtual image
  • m is positive → image is erect
  • |m| < 1 → image is diminished (smaller)

Final Answer:
Image position = 6 cm behind the mirror
Nature = Virtual, erect, and diminished

Ray Diagram (Convex Mirror)
P F C Object (10cm) Image (v=6cm) Position: 6 cm behind mirror | Nature: Virtual, Erect, Diminished
Significance for Exams
  • Frequently asked numerical problem in CBSE board exams (3 marks).
  • Tests correct use of mirror formula and sign convention.
  • Ray diagram is often required for full marks.
  • Important for NTSE, Olympiads, and foundational competitive exams.
← Q11
12 / 17  ·  71%
Q13 →
Q13
NUMERIC3 marks
The magnification produced by a plane mirror is +1. What does this mean?
Relevant Theory

Magnification for mirrors is defined as:

\[ m = \frac{h'}{h} = -\frac{v}{u} \]

  • \(m > 0\) → Image is erect (upright)
  • \(m < 0\) → Image is inverted
  • \(|m| = 1\) → Image size is equal to object size
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Interpret sign of magnification.
  • Step 2: Interpret magnitude of magnification.
  • Step 3: Conclude image characteristics.
Step-by-Step Explanation

Step 1: Given:

\[ m = +1 \]

Step 2: Interpret the sign:

  • Positive sign (+) indicates that the image is erect (upright).

Step 3: Interpret the magnitude:

  • Magnitude = 1 → image height = object height.

Step 4: Additional property of plane mirror:

  • Image is formed at the same distance behind the mirror as the object is in front.
  • Image is always virtual.

Final Answer:
Magnification +1 means the image formed is virtual, erect, and of the same size as the object, and it is formed at equal distance behind the mirror.

Conceptual Diagram
Mirror Object Virtual Image Properties: Object Distance (u) = Image Distance (v) | Erect | Laterally Inverted
Significance for Exams
  • Frequently asked 1-mark conceptual question in CBSE board exams.
  • Helps understand sign and magnitude of magnification clearly.
  • Important for numerical problems involving mirrors.
  • Useful for NTSE and Olympiad-level conceptual questions.
← Q12
13 / 17  ·  76%
Q14 →
Q14
NUMERIC3 marks
An object 5.0 cm in length is placed at a distance of 20 cm in front of a convex mirror of radius of curvature 30 cm. Find the position of the image, its nature and size.
Relevant Theory

For spherical mirrors:

\[ f = \frac{R}{2} \]

Mirror formula:

\[ \frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{v} + \frac{1}{u} \]

Magnification:

\[ m = -\frac{v}{u} = \frac{h'}{h} \]

  • Convex mirror → \(f > 0\)
  • Image is always virtual, erect, and diminished
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Convert radius to focal length.
  • Step 2: Apply mirror formula to find image distance.
  • Step 3: Calculate magnification.
  • Step 4: Find image height.
  • Step 5: State nature of image.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Given Data

\[ \begin{aligned} h &= 5 \text{ cm},\\ u &= -20 \text{ cm},\\ R &= 30 \text{ cm} \end{aligned} \]

Step 2: Find Focal Length

\[ f = \frac{R}{2} = \frac{30}{2} = 15 \text{ cm} \]

Step 3: Apply Mirror Formula

\[ \frac{1}{15} = \frac{1}{v} + \frac{1}{-20} \]

\[ \frac{1}{15} = \frac{1}{v} - \frac{1}{20} \]

\[ \frac{1}{v} = \frac{1}{15} + \frac{1}{20} \]

\[ \frac{1}{v} = \frac{4 + 3}{60} = \frac{7}{60} \]

\[ v = \frac{60}{7} \approx 8.57 \text{ cm} \]

Step 4: Magnification

\[ m = -\frac{v}{u} = -\frac{60/7}{-20} \]

\[ m = \frac{3}{7} \approx 0.43 \]

Step 5: Image Height

\[ \begin{aligned} h' &= m \cdot h \\&= \frac{3}{7} \times 5 \\&= \frac{15}{7} \\&\approx 2.14 \text{ cm} \end{aligned} \]

Step 6: Interpretation

  • v is positive → image formed behind mirror → virtual
  • m is positive → image is erect
  • |m| < 1 → image is diminished

Final Answer:
Image position = 8.57 cm behind the mirror
Image height = 2.14 cm
Nature = Virtual, erect, and diminished

Ray Diagram (Convex Mirror)
P F C Object (5cm) Image (v=8.6)
Significance for Exams
  • Very important numerical involving radius and focal length conversion.
  • Tests mirror formula and magnification together.
  • Ray diagram is often required for full marks.
  • Frequently appears in CBSE boards and NTSE exams.
← Q13
14 / 17  ·  82%
Q15 →
Q15
NUMERIC3 marks
An object of size 7.0 cm is placed at 27 cm in front of a concave mirror of focal length 18 cm. At what distance from the mirror should a screen be placed, so that a sharp, focused image can be obtained? Find the size and the nature of the image.
Relevant Theory

For spherical mirrors:

\[ \frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{v} + \frac{1}{u} \]

Magnification:

\[ m = -\frac{v}{u} = \frac{h'}{h} \]

  • Concave mirror → \(f < 0\)
  • Real image → formed on screen
  • Negative magnification → inverted image
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Write given values with sign convention.
  • Step 2: Apply mirror formula to find image distance.
  • Step 3: Determine screen position.
  • Step 4: Calculate magnification and image height.
  • Step 5: State nature of image.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Given Data

\[ h = 7 \text{ cm}, \quad u = -27 \text{ cm}, \quad f = -18 \text{ cm} \]

Step 2: Apply Mirror Formula

\[ \frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{v} + \frac{1}{u} \]

\[ \frac{1}{-18} = \frac{1}{v} + \frac{1}{-27} \]

\[ \frac{1}{-18} = \frac{1}{v} - \frac{1}{27} \]

\[ \frac{1}{v} = \frac{1}{-18} + \frac{1}{27} \]

\[ \frac{1}{v} = -\frac{1}{18} + \frac{1}{27} \]

\[ \frac{1}{v} = \frac{-3 + 2}{54} = -\frac{1}{54} \]

\[ v = -54 \text{ cm} \]

Step 3: Screen Position

  • v is negative → image is formed in front of mirror → real image
  • Screen should be placed at 54 cm in front of the mirror

Step 4: Magnification

\[ m = -\frac{v}{u} = -\frac{-54}{-27} \]

\[ m = -2 \]

Step 5: Image Height

\[ m = \frac{h'}{h} \]

\[ -2 = \frac{h'}{7} \]

\[ h' = -14 \text{ cm} \]

Step 6: Interpretation

  • v negative → real image
  • m negative → inverted image
  • |m| > 1 → magnified image

Final Answer:
Screen position = 54 cm in front of mirror
Image size = 14 cm
Nature = Real, inverted, and magnified

Ray Diagram (Concave Mirror)
C F P Object Image
Significance for Exams
  • Very important long numerical (4–5 marks) in CBSE board exams.
  • Combines mirror formula, magnification, and practical concept of screen placement.
  • Ray diagram is essential for full scoring.
  • Frequently asked in NTSE and Olympiad exams.
← Q14
15 / 17  ·  88%
Q16 →
Q16
NUMERIC3 marks
Find the focal length of a lens of power 2.0 D. What type of lens is this?
Relevant Theory

The power of a lens is defined as:

\[ P = \frac{1}{f} \]

  • \(P\) is in dioptre (D) and \(f\) is in metre (m).
  • \(P > 0\) → Convex lens (converging)
  • \(P < 0\) → Concave lens (diverging)
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Write given power.
  • Step 2: Use relation \(P = 1/f\).
  • Step 3: Convert focal length into cm.
  • Step 4: Determine type from sign.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Given Data

\[ P = +2.0 \text{ D} \]

Step 2: Use Formula

\[ P = \frac{1}{f} \]

\[ 2 = \frac{1}{f} \]

\[ f = \frac{1}{2} = 0.5 \text{ m} \]

Step 3: Convert into cm

\[ f = 0.5 \times 100 = 50 \text{ cm} \]

Step 4: Determine Type

  • Focal length is positive → lens is convex.

Final Answer:
Focal length = 50 cm
Type of lens = Convex lens

Conceptual Representation
F O
Significance for Exams
  • Very common 1–2 mark numerical in CBSE board exams.
  • Tests understanding of power–focal length relation.
  • Sign of power is frequently used to identify lens type.
  • Important for competitive exams like NTSE and Olympiads.
← Q15
16 / 17  ·  94%
Q17 →
Q17
NUMERIC3 marks
A doctor has prescribed a corrective lens of power +1.5 D. Find the focal length of the lens. Is the prescribed lens diverging or converging?
Relevant Theory

The relation between power and focal length is:

\[ P = \frac{1}{f} \]

  • Power \(P\) is in dioptre (D), focal length \(f\) in metre (m).
  • \(P > 0\) → Converging (convex) lens.
  • \(P < 0\) → Diverging (concave) lens.
Solution Roadmap
  • Step 1: Note given power.
  • Step 2: Apply \(P = 1/f\).
  • Step 3: Convert focal length into cm.
  • Step 4: Determine type using sign.
Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Given Data

\[ P = +1.5 \text{ D} \]

Step 2: Use Formula

\[ P = \frac{1}{f} \]

\[ 1.5 = \frac{1}{f} \]

\[ f = \frac{1}{1.5} \]

\[ f = \frac{2}{3} \text{ m} \]

\[ f \approx 0.67 \text{ m} \]

Step 3: Convert into cm

\[ f = 0.67 \times 100 = 66.7 \text{ cm} \approx 67 \text{ cm} \]

Step 4: Determine Type

  • Positive focal length → lens is converging (convex).

Final Answer:
Focal length ≈ 0.67 m (≈ 67 cm)
Type of lens = Converging (Convex lens)

Conceptual Representation
F O
Significance for Exams
  • Frequently asked medical application question in CBSE exams.
  • Important for understanding corrective lenses (vision defects).
  • Tests relation between power and focal length.
  • Relevant for NTSE, Olympiads, and NEET foundation.
← Q16
17 / 17  ·  100%
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Class 10 Light NCERT Solutions (Reflection & Refraction Explained)
Class 10 Light NCERT Solutions (Reflection & Refraction Explained) — Complete Notes & Solutions · academia-aeternum.com
The NCERT Class X Physics Chapter "Light – Reflection and Refraction" dives into the fundamental concepts of how light interacts with different surfaces and substances. This chapter guides students through the laws of reflection and refraction, image formation by concave and convex mirrors and lenses, sign conventions, real and virtual images, magnification calculations, types of mirrors and lenses, typical applications, and numerous solved examples. Both conceptual understanding and…
🎓 Class 10 📐 Science 📖 NCERT ✅ Free Access 🏆 CBSE · JEE
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