Linear Magnification (M) Due to Spherical Mirrors

Magnification refers to the change in the size of the image formed by spherical mirrors (concave or convex) compared to the size of the object. It is defined as the ratio of the height of the image (h₂) to the height of the object (h₁) and is represented by the symbol M. 

Magnification M = `"Height of the image"/"Height of the object"  = (h_2)/(h_1)`.

From this, it can be shown that M = -`"v"/"u"`

As the object is always kept above the principal axis, its height is always taken to be positive. For virtual images, the height is positive, while for real images, it is negative. As the object is kept on the left of the mirror, its distance (u) is always negative.

• A precision magnifier improves the clarity and size of an image by using multiple optical elements to eliminate distortions.
• It provides higher accuracy and sharper images compared to simple magnifiers, making it useful for detailed observation.
• Tiny water droplets naturally act as magnifiers, forming spherical lenses that enlarge objects behind them. The spherical shape of water droplets, created by surface tension, helps in magnifying objects.
• Even when the shape of a water droplet is slightly distorted, it can still create clear and magnified images of the objects in contact.