[Physics] Reflectivity of mirror

reflection

Is mirror displaying the original image. Is there a constraint for the reflective property of mirror. Does mirror reflect with 100% perfection?

Best Answer

An electrically conductive first surface mirror cannot be as efficient as a multi-layer first surface dielectric mirror. The reflection mechanisms are different - absorption and re-emission vs. optical resonance.

What is a "correct" image? If you want high fidelity return, use a fused silica corner cube operating via total internal reflection. Do you want to reverse intermediary optical aberrations? Use a phase conjugate mirror. Viewing your face in a phase conjugate mirror will be a spiritual experience.

Don a pair of circularly-polarized 3-D movie glasses, then look in mirror. Close one eye, Whoa! What will be the result of closing both eyes?

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