Question

select the correct answer.
why is the primary mirror in a telescope curved?
a. to magnify the image
b. to direct light rays to a focal point to intensify them
c. to change the direction of the rays
d. to bend the rays
e. to absorb extra light

Explanation:

A curved primary mirror in a telescope directs light rays to a focal point. This concentration of light intensifies the image. Magnifying the image (A) is more about lenses or combinations of mirrors and lenses in some cases. Changing the direction of rays (C) can be done by flat mirrors (like in a Newtonian telescope's secondary mirror). Bending rays (D) is related to refraction (lenses). Absorbing extra light (E) is not the purpose of the primary mirror; its job is to collect and focus light.

Answer:

B. to direct light rays to a focal point to intensify them