Question

Explain the difference between a concave and a convex mirror.

Answer 1

Sl. No.	Differentiating Property	Concave Mirror	Convex Mirror
1.	Meaning	Concave means rounded or hollowed like the interior of a circle or sphere Also called a converging mirror.	Convex means rounded or curved like the exterior of a circle or sphere. Also called a fish eye or diverging mirror.
2.	Structure	The mirror coating of the concave mirror is on the outside of the spherical surface. In concave mirrors, the centre of curvature and the reflecting surface fall on the same side of the mirror.	The mirror coating of the convex mirror is on the inside of the spherical surface. In convex mirrors, the centre of curvature and the reflecting surface fall on the opposite side of the mirror.
3.	Position of the Focus	Focus lies in front of the mirror i.e. focal length, is positive.	The focus lies behind the mirror i.e. focal length is negative.
4.	Image Properties	The image formed by a concave mirror is real, inverted and enlarged (except when the object is between P and F where the image is virtual, erect and enlarged).	The image formed by a convex mirror is virtual, erect and diminished.
5.	Image Projection	An image can be projected on a screen as they are real.	Image cannot be projected on a screen as they are virtual.
6.	Usage	They are used in reflecting telescopes, shaving mirrors, torchlights, etc. as they give a magnified image of the objects.	Convex mirrors are used as side view or rearview mirrors in vehicles as they cover a wider area of view.