Question

In a physics lab, Ray Zuvlite arranges two mirrors with a right angle orientation as shown. Ray then directs a laser line at one of the mirrors. The light reflects off both mirrors as shown. If angle A is 25°, determine the what is the angle measure of angles B, C, and D?

Answer 1

Using the Law of Reflection, angle B is 25°, angle C is 65°, and angle D is also 65° because when light reflects from two mirrors at a right angle, the incoming and outgoing rays are parallel.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question involves understanding the Law of Reflection and how it applies to light rays reflecting off surfaces at precise angles. Given angle A is 25°, we can determine angles B, C, and D using this law. The Law of Reflection states that the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection. Since the mirrors are at a right angle to each other, this creates an environment where the incoming and outgoing rays are parallel to one another.

Considering the geometry involved, angle B will also be 25° because it is the reflection of angle A off the first mirror. Angle C is 90° minus angle B, so angle C will be 65°. This is because the angle between the mirror's surface and the normal (a line perpendicular to the mirror) is 90°, and angle C will fill the remaining portion of this right angle. Angle D is the reflection of angle C off the second mirror, so angle D is also 65°.

Answer 2

B = 25°

C = 65°

D = 25°

Step-by-step explanation:

The given parameters are;

The orientation of the two mirrors = At right angle to each other

The laser light is directed at one of the mirror

The measure of angle, A = 25°

The measures of angle B, C, and D are found as follows;

We have;

∠A = ∠B = 25°, by angle of incidence equals angle of reflection

∠B = 25°

∠B + ∠C = 90° by sum of the acute angles of a right triangle

25° + ∠C = 90°

∴ ∠C = 90° - 25° = 65°

∠C = 65°

∠E = ∠C = 65° by angle of incidence equals angle of reflection

∴ ∠E = 65°

Line 'L' is perpendicular to the second mirror, therefore, the angle between line 'L' and the second mirror = 90° = ∠E + ∠D

∠E + ∠D = 90°, by angle sum property

Therefore;

65° + ∠D = 90°

∴ ∠D = 90° - 65° = 25°

∠D = 25°