Spherical mirrors are curved mirrors cut from a hollow sphere of glass. Based on which side is polished and which side is reflecting, they are divided into Concave and Convex mirrors.
Concave: Curves inward, Converging, Forms Real & Virtual images.
Convex: Curves outward, Diverging, Forms ONLY Virtual & Diminished images.
Use of Concave: Car headlights, dentist mirrors.
Use of Convex: Rear-view mirrors in cars/bikes.
| Feature | Concave Mirror | Convex Mirror |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Image | Can form both Real & Virtual images. | Forms ONLY Virtual images. |
| Orientation | Can be Inverted (if real) or Erect (if virtual). | ALWAYS Erect (upright). |
| Size of Image | Can be Magnified, same size, or diminished depending on distance. | ALWAYS Diminished (smaller than object). |
A concave mirror has its reflecting surface curved inwards and can form both real and virtual images. A convex mirror has its reflecting surface curved outwards and forms only virtual, erect, and smaller images.
A convex mirror is used as a rear-view mirror because it always forms an erect (upright) image and provides a much wider field of view, helping the driver see more traffic behind them.
An Ice Cube Contains a Large Air Bubble — Optics
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A Labourer Moving a Loaded Cart — Work Done and Force Analysis
Work done by a labourer moving a loaded cart equals force × displacement × cosθ. If the force is perpendicular to displacement, work done is zero.
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A metallic sphere weighs 3 kg in air and 2.5 kg in water. Density = 6000 kg/m³ = 6 g/cm³. Step-by-step Archimedes principle solution.
An Electron Moves Along Vertical Line and Towards Observer — Magnetic Field Direction
When an electron moves towards the observer, the magnetic field is clockwise (viewed from front). Use the left-hand rule or reverse right-hand rule for electrons.
What is an Aneroid Barometer?
Learn about the aneroid barometer, an instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure without using liquid mercury. Perfect for geography and physics students.
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