What is a spherical mirror ? Distinguish between a concave mirror and a convex mirror.

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Solution

A spherical mirror is a mirror whose reflecting surface is part of a hollow sphere of glass. The spherical mirrors are of two types: concave mirrors and convex mirrors.
Difference between the concave mirror and convex mirror:
S. No. Concave mirror Convex mirror
1. A concave mirror is a spherical mirror in which the reflection of light takes place at a concave surface (or bent-in surface), whereas a convex mirror is a spherical mirror in which the reflection of light takes place at the convex surface (or bulging out surface). A concave mirror converges the parallel rays of light that fall on it, whereas a convex mirror diverges the parallel rays of light that fall on it.
2. The center of curvature lies in the front of the mirror. The center of curvature lies behind the mirror.
3. The image formed is virtual or real. The image formed is always virtual.
4. Example: Reflectors in projectors, searchlights, etc. Example: Rear view mirrors in cars and bikes.

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S. No.	Concave mirror	Convex mirror
1.	A concave mirror is a spherical mirror in which the reflection of light takes place at a concave surface (or bent-in surface), whereas a convex mirror is a spherical mirror in which the reflection of light takes place at the convex surface (or bulging out surface).	A concave mirror converges the parallel rays of light that fall on it, whereas a convex mirror diverges the parallel rays of light that fall on it.
2.	The center of curvature lies in the front of the mirror.	The center of curvature lies behind the mirror.
3.	The image formed is virtual or real.	The image formed is always virtual.
4.	Example: Reflectors in projectors, searchlights, etc.	Example: Rear view mirrors in cars and bikes.