2007-05-27 13:08:00 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Depending on what level of physics you are studying:
A - Reflect them
or
B - Reflect, refract, absorb and dissipate them.
.
2007-05-27 15:01:20 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
This can be a very complex answer. For example, properly engineered, mirrors can actually cause a phase change in light waves. So that reflected waves are not in sync with the incident (incoming) waves. We see evidence of this in rear view mirrors that dim light from headlights behind your car.
Mirrors can obviously alter the wave direction as well. That's why you can direct sunlight into your friend's eyes with a pocket mirror.
Mirrors can also direct waves so that distant objects look close up. We see this in reflecting telescopes using primary and secondary mirrors; or in makeup mirrors that make those zits on your face get really big looking.
Mirrors can be used to split beams of coherent light waves. Laser labs use these all the time to do light related experiments.
I'm guessing there are more things mirrors can do, but that's about all I can think of presently. I'm sure other answerers will come up with a few more.
2007-05-27 20:30:00 · answer #2 · answered by oldprof 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You will find your answer(s) here:
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/geoopt/mirrorcon.html
2007-05-27 20:27:01 · answer #3 · answered by Rod B 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
absorbs them and then re-emits photons
2007-05-27 20:18:39 · answer #4 · answered by bombaybubba 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋