Can anyone help with the mathematics involved herein please?

A recent TV program tried to reconstruct the scenario in which ancient ships were set on fire whilst at sea, using concentrated solar power.

I'm looking at intensifying the effect of forming a parabolic support which in turn forms the mounting structure for a parabolic mirrored array. A double concave arrangement if you follow me. Any thoughts or help would be good.

Supplement from 05/17/2008 10:47pm:

The theory I'm looking at is this... The first paraboloid has a calculable focal point and theoretically, this effect could be further "amplified" by mounting further parabolic mirrors upon/within this surface. How can I calculate the efficiency/energy of this proposed system?

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Asked in physics asked on: 05/17/2008 10:33pm

closed on: 05/18/2008 06:41pm

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osbertonbowls

Rank: Pythagoras (11,384) | physics (64)

10 hours after the question was opened (05/18/2008 08:16am)

The total amount of energy that will result from your arrangement cannot exceed the amount gathered by the first parabaloid but will concentrate it onto a smaller area.

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Rank: Novice (61) | physics (23)

13 hours after the question was opened (05/18/2008 10:40am)

The solar furnace at Odeillo in France works on this principle.

There's loads of links on google for it.

If you are ever in the area while on hols, go and see it. It's spectacular!

http://www.technologystudent.com/energy1/solar4.htm copy

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