What is the difference between a concave and convex mirror?
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Difference Between Concave and Convex Mirrors
Concave and convex mirrors are types of curved mirrors that are parts of a sphere. Their functionality and applications differ based on their curvature and the way they reflect light.
Concave Mirrors
A concave mirror, also known as a converging mirror, has a reflective surface that bulges inward, resembling a portion of the interior of a sphere. Its reflecting surface is on the inner side.
- Forms real and inverted images when the object is outside the focus.
- Forms virtual and erect images when the object is placed between the focal point and the mirror.
- Has a focal point in front of the mirror.
- Used in devices that require focused light, such as telescopes, flashlights, and head mirrors used by ENT doctors.
- Image size can be larger or smaller than the object depending on the object's position relative to the focus and center of curvature.
Used in headlights, reflecting telescopes, solar furnaces, and cosmetic mirrors to provide an enlarged view of the face.
Convex Mirrors
A convex mirror, also known as a diverging mirror, has a reflective surface that bulges outward, similar to the exterior of a sphere. Its reflecting surface is on the outer side.
- Forms virtual, erect, and diminished images regardless of where the object is placed in relation to the mirror.
- Has a focal point behind the mirror since the reflective surface diverges light rays.
- Provides a wider field of view than a flat mirror, which makes them useful for surveillance purposes.
- Cannot produce a real image because the reflected rays do not actually meet.
Commonly used in vehicle side mirrors, architectural design to provide an illusion of more space, and surveillance in shops and street corners for safety and security.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Concave Mirror | Convex Mirror |
|---|---|---|
| Shape of Reflecting Surface | Curves inward | Curves outward |
| Type of Images Formed | Real and inverted (outside focus), Virtual and erect (inside focus) | Virtual, erect, and diminished |
| Position of Focal Point | In front of the mirror | Behind the mirror |
| Field of View | Narrower | Wider |
| Applications | Headlights, telescopes, flashlights | Side-view mirrors, surveillance cameras |
In summary, the key difference between concave and convex mirrors lies in their shapes, the type of images they form, and their applications. While concave mirrors can focus light and form real images, convex mirrors diverge light rays and are used to provide a wider field of view.