======Flying Optical Illusion======


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**Alternative titles:** Floating with Mirrors
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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  - Place a large flat mirror vertically on the floor, with volunteers holding it if needed.  
  - Stand with one leg in front of the mirror and the other leg hidden behind it.  
  - From the audience’s perspective, the leg in front of the mirror appears as the opposite leg reflected.  
  - Lift the leg in front of the mirror. The reflection makes it appear that both legs are raised, creating the illusion of flight.  
  - Ask students to explain how reflection creates this illusion.



====Links==== 
Flying mirror Illusion - dArtofScience: 
{{youtube>qq5CtxgP-bc?}}\\


📄 Flying Optical Illusion - Science World: [[https://www.scienceworld.ca/resource/flying-optical-illusion/]]\\

====Variations====
  * Let student volunteers try the illusion to experience it themselves.  
  * Experiment with arm positions or props to see how reflections change perception.  
  * Use multiple mirrors to create more complex illusions.



====Safety Precautions====
  * Handle the mirror carefully to avoid breakage or injury.  
  * Ensure the mirror is stable and supported so it does not tip over.  
  * Clear the demonstration area of tripping hazards.




====Questions to Consider====
  * How many actual legs are being seen in the illusion? (Only one real leg plus its reflection.)  
  * Which parts of the legs are visible? (The front leg and the mirror’s reflection of its inner side.)  
  * Why does the brain interpret the reflection as a second leg? (The reflection appears in the orientation expected of the hidden leg.)  
  * How does this demonstration show the properties of light? (Light rays reflect off the mirror and travel to our eyes, creating the illusion of depth.)