Chapter 29, Problem 2A

Why do smooth metal surfaces make good mirrors?

To determine

To explain: The reason for getting a good mirror by a smooth metal surface.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The smooth metal surfaces reflect all the colors of the visible spectrum.

When the light is incident perpendicularly on the surface of the glass’s pane the oscillating electric field of the incident light is produced the forces on the charges of the metal surface’s molecules. Few charges which are too heavy while few are closely bound are vibrating significantly due to the associated electric field. The loosely bound electrons can move in response to these electrical forces. So, these electrons are moving with the same frequency as that of the incident light which gives to the reflected wave.

Conclusion:

The smooth metal surfaces are used to makes a good mirror because they reflected all the colors of the visible light.