Concave vs convex mirrors: Differences you must know

“Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?” we all know of this famous phrase that Snow White’s stepmother kept repeating! But, did she ever pause to think that what kind of magic mirror she had? You must be thinking, what a strange question! Well, we ask this question because most people have no idea that there are broadly two types of mirror, concave and convex.

Expert stores that sell different kinds of mirrors, including art deco mirrors like Mirror Cityknow all about it. You can definitely ask them about it, but why not brush up on the knowledge regarding the different types of mirror yourself. It is always a good idea to walk up to store experts with a minimum knowledge to cast a good impression. You would not want to look lost on the subject, surely!

What are the basic differences between concave mirror and convex mirror?

Concave and Convex — you must have heard these terms somewhere in your textbooks, right? Yes, it was a part of your science syllabus, but that took place a long time ago. So, why not have a look through it again! Know the mirror you want to put up – this would help you to play up their innate features to improve your décor. These are anyways useful (and widely used) in bathrooms and on your dressing table. You need to know all about the mirrors and find the right one for your use.

So, we will help you remember the major difference between the two. Here it goes:

1. Concave Mirrors: The mirrors are also known as converging mirrors. This kind of mirror’s surface is rounded and hollow. The surface represents the interior of a circle or sphere. Here are some features of the mirrors:

Structure: The coating is on the outer side of the spherical surface. The reflecting surface along with the centre of curvature falls on the mirror’s same side.

Position of the Focus: This lies on the front of the mirror.

Properties of the Image: The image that is formed is real, enlarged and inverted.

Projection of the Image: The image can be projected on a screen. This happens because the image is real.

Utility: These mirrors are used to create telescopes, shaving mirrors and torchlight or searchlight. This is due to the reason that the images look enlarged.

2. Convex Mirrors: Convex mirror is also known as diverging mirror. This kind of mirror is rounded or curved. It looks like the exterior of a sphere or circle. Some of the features include:

Structure: The coating is on the inner side of the spherical surface. The reflecting surface and the centre of curvature fall on the opposite side of the mirror.

Position of the Focus: This lies behind the mirror.

Properties of the Image: The image that is formed is virtual, diminished and erect.

Projection of the Image: The image can never be projected on a screen. This is due to the reason that a virtual image is formed.

Utility: These mirrors are used in side-view and rear-view mirrors of vehicles. This is due to the reason that the mirrors offer a wide angle of view. It is useful for people to see what is behind them and has found use in ATMs, hospitals, hallways of schools, stores and many more places.

Now, you know the use of each kind of mirror. Use the mirrors in a smart way to give your property a new look. Whether it is a bathroom renovation or office room renovation, you can install numerous mirrors, as needed.  Just make sure you have the right mirror. If you are confused, talk to the experts at the store. They know what is best for your application.

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