Uses of Convex Mirror

A convex mirror is a spherical reflecting surface in which its bulging side faces the light source. There are numerous uses of the convex mirror which is also referred to as the fish-eye mirror by automobile enthusiasts and diverging mirror by physicists. The term ‘diverging mirror’ is based on its behaviour of making rays diverge upon reflection. This means that when a parallel light ray hits a convex mirror, it reflects outwards and travels directly away from an imaginary focal point.

Some convex mirror uses are listed in the points below.

• Inside buildings
• Vehicle mirrors
• Magnifying glass
• Security purposes

The convex mirror always forms a virtual image of the object, and the image formed by the convex mirror is smaller than the size of the actual object. Therefore, the most common convex mirror uses are in places where bigger objects are to be viewed in a smaller size. Since convex mirrors have a wider view field than concave mirrors and plane mirrors, they are mostly used inside mirrors of automobiles. Some of the most vital and common uses of convex mirrors are described below.

Convex mirrors used inside buildings

Large offices, stores, and hospitals use a convex mirror to let people see around the corner so that they can avoid running into each other and prevent any collision.

Convex mirrors used in vehicles

Convex mirrors are widely used as rear-view mirrors in automobiles and vehicles because they can diverge light beams and make virtual images.

Uses of the convex mirror in a magnifying glass

Convex mirrors are widely used for making magnifying glasses. In order to make a magnifying glass, two convex mirrors are placed back to back.

Convex mirrors used for security purposes

Convex mirrors are also used for security purposes in various places. They are placed near ATMs so that bank customers can check if someone is behind them.

These are some of the common convex mirrors used in the practical world. Convex mirrors are also used in various other places, like street light reflectors, as they can spread light over bigger areas. They are also used to make telescopes and ceiling dome mirrors.

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