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Optical Mirror Physics

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Optical Mirror Physics

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Mirrors are arguably the most commonly-used optical components. They appear in small laboratory experimental set-ups, industrial applications, as well as large-scale optical systems. These components utilize reflection to redirect, focus, and collect light. Optical mirrors consist of metallic or dielectric films deposited directly on a substrate such as glass, differing from common mirrors, which are coated on the back surface of the glass. As a consequence, the reflective surface of an optical mirror may be subject to environmental conditions. This means that durability and damage resistance must also be considered when choosing a mirror as well as how well it reflects light at the wavelength of interest. This section introduces the physical concept of reflection and discusses the important attributes of the mirror as an optical component.

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