Even though both these devices are used in optics but there is a difference between mirror and lens. The mirror is a device is based on the principle of reflection whereas the lens is based on the principle of refraction. Both these devices are used in various industries such as photography or astronomy etc.
Difference Between Mirror and Lens
The core differences between the mirror and lens would be due to its construction and working. The mirror is the apparatus which reflects the light falling on them. Whereas, lenses are the ones that manipulate the light. The mirror is having one side reflective coating and on the other hand. Lenses are classified into various types: simple lenses and compound lenses, and depending on the type of refraction image formed by lenses: concave and convex lenses.
| Difference Between Mirror and Lens | |
|---|---|
| Mirror | Lens |
| This works on the principle of reflection | This works on the principle of refraction |
| These are manufactured using materials other than glass or clear plastic | These are manufactured using materials made up of glass or clear plastic |
| An ideal mirror reflects 100% of light | An ideal lens refracts 100% of light |
| The uses of mirror can be seen in houses, automobiles, solar appliances, etc | The uses of lenses can be seen in astronomy and scientific industries, medical and research purposes, etc. |
| There are two types: concave and convex | There are of six types of lenses |
| Plane mirrors do not have a focal point | It has two focal points for each kind of lens |
These were some difference between mirror and lens. If you wish to find out more, download BYJU’S – The Learning App.
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