Aim-To determine focal length of a given concave mirror

Materials Required

1. A concave mirror
2. A measuring scale
3. A screen holder
4. A mirror holder
5. A mirror stand

Procedure

1. The distance between the selected distinct object should be more than 50 ft.
2. The concave mirror placed on the mirror stand and the distant object should be facing
each other.
3. The screen should be placed in front of the reflecting surface of the mirror. To obtain a
clear, sharp image the screen should be adjusted.
4. Using a metre scale the distance between the concave mirror and screen can be
determined. The distance is the same as the focal length of the given concave mirror.
5. Repeat the above procedure thrice to calculate the average focal length.

Experimental Setup

Observation Table

Sl.no Position of concave mirror (M) Position of screen (S) Focal length = (M-S)
cm
 1 60 cm

2 60 cm

3 60 cm

Calculation
Following is the mean value of the focal length of concave mirror:

Result
10 cm is the focal length of the concave mirror.

Precautions
1. To get a well illuminated and distinct image of the distinct object, the distant object
should be well illuminated.
2. A concave mirror should be always placed near an open window.
3. The polished surface of the concave mirror and the distinct object should be facing each
other.
4. There should not be any hurdle between the rays of light from the object and the concave
mirror.
5. The screen and the concave mirror stand should be parallel to the measuring scale.
6. The mirror holder along with the mirror should be perpendicular to the measuring scale.