The kaleidoscope

The idea

A kaleidoscope has three mirrors whose reflections of reflections form multiple images, giving a different pattern every time it is turned.

A tube of patterns

Look into a kaleidoscope and turn it. Beautiful patterns appear.

How many mirrors do you think are inside a kaleidoscope?

• One
• Three
• Ten

Turn it

Turn the kaleidoscope three times and look at each pattern.

Reflections of reflections

A few beads, three mirrors, and so many images! The mirrors reflect the beads and also reflect each other’s reflections.

A kaleidoscope has three mirrors whose reflections of reflections form multiple images, giving a different pattern every time it is turned.

Notes

A kaleidoscope has three mirrors whose reflections of reflections form multiple images, giving a different pattern every time it is turned.

Check yourself

How many mirrors does a kaleidoscope have?

Answer: 3 mirrors

Three mirrors.

Why do we see many images in a kaleidoscope?

What happens when a kaleidoscope is turned?

Who often use kaleidoscopes to get ideas for new patterns?

• There are thousands of beads inside. Only a few beads are inside. The mirrors make many images of them.
• The mirrors reflect the beads and the reflections too — correct. Yes! Reflections of reflections make many images.
• The beads multiply by themselves. Only a few beads are inside. The mirrors repeat them.
• No pattern is seen. Patterns are seen all the time, and they change when it is turned.
• The same pattern stays. A different pattern appears every time.
• A different pattern appears — correct. Yes! Every turn gives a new pattern.
• Designers and artists — correct. Yes! They get ideas for new patterns.
• Bus drivers. Bus drivers use rear-view mirrors. Designers and artists use kaleidoscopes for pattern ideas.
• Soldiers in bunkers. Soldiers use periscopes to see outside their bunkers.