moomz
/vsΒ·scienceΒ·en

πŸͺžConvex mirror vs Concave mirrorπŸ”†

Curved mirrors reflect light differently than flat ones. Whether the surface bulges out or curves in changes the image entirely.

Run a moomz poll: who wins for you?
moomz.com β€” 10s, anonymous, free
β†’
πŸͺžConvex mirror
  • βœ“Reflecting surface bulges outward
  • βœ“Spreads reflected light rays apart
  • βœ“Always forms a small, upright virtual image
  • βœ“Gives a wide field of view
  • βœ“Used in car side mirrors and security mirrors
πŸ”†Concave mirror
  • βœ“Reflecting surface curves inward
  • βœ“Converges reflected light rays to a focal point
  • βœ“Can form real or virtual, magnified or reduced images
  • βœ“Used in telescopes, headlights and shaving mirrors
  • βœ“The image depends on the object's distance

Verdict

A convex mirror spreads light and shows a wide, shrunken view, ideal for safety. A concave mirror focuses light and can magnify, which makes it useful in telescopes and headlights.

Frequently asked

Why do cars use convex side mirrors?+

Convex mirrors give a wide field of view, helping drivers see more of the road behind them.

Which mirror can magnify your face?+

A concave mirror produces a magnified, upright image when you are close to it.

Which mirror focuses light to a point?+

A concave mirror converges parallel light rays to a focal point.

Also in

More in science

Run a moomz poll: who wins for you?