Image Characteristics in Spherical Mirrors

📚 Key Concepts

🔹 Images in Concave Mirrors

Distance-dependent behavior:

When object is CLOSE to mirror:

• Image is erect and enlarged (magnified)
• Image is virtual (cannot be projected on screen)
• Used in makeup mirrors and dental mirrors

When object is FAR from mirror:

• Image becomes inverted
• Image can be enlarged, same size, or diminished depending on exact distance
• Image is real (can be projected on screen)

🔹 Images in Convex Mirrors

Consistent behavior regardless of distance:

• Image is always erect
• Image is always diminished (smaller than object)
• Image is always virtual
• Provides wider field of view

🔹 Comparison with Plane Mirrors

🔹 Why Convex Mirrors for Vehicles?

Advantages:

1. Wider field of view – shows larger area behind vehicle
2. Always erect image – no confusion for driver
3. Diminished images – fits more traffic in small mirror
4. Warning needed – “Objects in mirror are closer than they appear”