Convex Mirror

Convex mirror, also called a diverging mirror, is a mirror with a reflective surface that bulges towards the light source. It reflects light outwards. It cannot be used to focus light. Although the projected image appears smaller than what is actually being projected, the image grows larger as the object gets closer to the convex mirror. 

Let’s dive deeper into the convex.

What is a Convex Mirror?

The convex mirror is one in which the reflective side bulges towards the light source. These are not used to focus light but reflect light outwards. They are also known as fish-eye or diverging mirrors. These mirrors reflect every ray of light and create virtual images.

Convex mirrors are only able to create virtual or imaginary images. Therefore, the size of an object’s image will always be smaller than its actual size. The images created by convex mirrors are diminished, virtual, and upright.

Since the image is in the mirror, it cannot be projected onto screens. Thus, from a large distance, the object will appear smaller at first, but it will grow in size as it moves closer.

Convex Mirror: Image Formation

There are two types of image formation depending upon the position of an object in convex mirrors:

• If the object reaches infinity
• If the object is situated between the poles and infinity.

When the object is at infinity

If the object is placed at infinity, it will form a point-sized image at the focus. The image created will be very diminished, virtual, and erect.

When the object is placed between infinity and pole

When an object is placed in the middle of a convex mirror’s pole and infinity, it will create an image that will be smaller and virtual. This will occur between the pole (or behind the convex mirror) and the focus.

How is a Convex Mirror Different from a Concave Mirror?

The reflective surface of concave mirrors bulges inward. A convex mirror bulges to the direction where the light source lies.

A concave mirror magnifies the object, but a convex mirror reduces the size of the image so that it fits easily in the mirror.

Convex Mirror – Applications

Convex Mirrors have many different applications. Let us look at some important applications of convex mirrors.

Automobiles

It is essential to be aware of all vehicles around you while driving. Automobiles come with side-view and rearview mirrors. For drivers who want to have a good view of their surroundings, automobiles use convex mirrors as rear view mirrors. This helps drivers avoid accidents and helps them see potential dangers.

Convex mirrors are more versatile than plane or concave mirrors. Convex mirrors offer a fish-eye perspective to those who drive an automobile. They can also provide clear rear views of roads and vehicles around them. The virtual image created by the convex reflector will also be smaller in size than the actual one, thus giving the driver a wider view.

Automated Teller Machines

Convex mirrors are placed next to ATMs to enable customers to see who is present there. This allows customers to be secure while using ATMs by preventing thefts while people are withdrawing money.

Street Lights

Convex lenses are used in streetlights due to their ability to spread light across a wider area.

Sunglasses

Convex mirrors help in making sunglasses. They can be used in sunglasses to reflect the sunlight away.

Magnifying Glasses

Magnifying glasses can actually be made by combining two convex mirrors.

Conclusion

A diverging mirror, also known as a convex mirror, has a reflective surface that protrudes towards the light source. Every ray of light is reflected by these mirrors, creating virtual images. The image in the convex mirror is unsuitable for projection onto displays. 

The image created by a convex mirror will appear smaller at first when viewed from a distance, but as it gets nearer, it will increase in size. Mirrors that are convex are more adaptable than those that are plane or concave. 

The following are some of their key points:

• A convex mirror reflects light outwards. It is therefore not used for focusing light.
• Because the focus and centre of curvature of convex or curved mirrors are imaginary points, they tend to create a virtual image.
• They are typically used as rearview and side-view mirrors in automobiles and as security or safety mirrors in public.
• These mirrors allow for a wider perspective than concave or flat mirrors.
• There are two possible ways to create images depending on the location of the object in the convex mirror: when it is at infinity and when it’s between the poles.