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Is a mirror a light source?

Published in Physics 1 min read

No, a mirror is not a light source.

Mirrors reflect light, they do not produce it.

Here's why:

  • Light sources generate their own light. Examples include the sun, a light bulb, or a fire.
  • Mirrors simply bounce light that hits their surface. They change the direction of light but don't create new light.

Think of it this way: If you shine a flashlight on a mirror, the mirror will reflect the light back at you, making it appear brighter. However, the mirror itself doesn't create the light. It's still coming from the flashlight.

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