2007-07-10 14:55:58 · 3 answers · asked by dandyta 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Because of "Scattering of light", reflection, refraction, absorption. Only partial sunlight is reflected back from the mirror.
A standard planar mirror will not increase the energy contained in the rays that reflect off it. In fact, there will be some loss of energy since the reflective surface is not perfect. There is some reduction in the light's intensity as it passes through the mirror's glass(refraction) and reflects off the backing surface, (scattering of light).
Parabolic mirrors, on the other hand, concentrate and focus the light rays on a single point in front of the mirror, aptly named the focus. Although the energy is not amplified, it appears to intensify because of the concentration effect.
2007-07-10 15:17:34 · answer #1 · answered by Maulik 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
It should work fine if you hold them right. The reflected light needs to fully cover the lens to be as effective. Make sure the magnifier is big enough to work directly, then try again.
2007-07-10 23:37:26 · answer #2 · answered by Dr. R 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
All of the reflected light is not passing through the magnifier.
2007-07-14 11:20:32 · answer #3 · answered by johnandeileen2000 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋