10.4
Convex mirrors are mirrors with reflective surfaces that bulge or curve outwards. Convex diverges (their lenses converge) Convex mirrors like concave mirrors, also have spherical aberration. only the small Center region of a convex mirror gives images that are not distorted
The focal point of a convex mirror is behind the mirror
When parallel rays of a light hit a convex mirror, the reflected Rays travel out and away from each other they diverge at one point. You have to extend the reflected rays backwards behind the mirror until they meet to the focal point so they converge at a point, it would be a virtual image. So rays are diverging first then you extend the reflected rays and they converge at a point, which will be your virtual image.
The mirror and magnification equations for concave mirrors are also used for convex mirrors. However, since the focal point is behind the mirror, the focal length, F, for a convex mirror is negative.
Convex surfaces have many applications, from security mirrors in stores or at border crossings, to automobile side mirrors, to see a wider view.
And the curved surfaces of aircraft bodies reflecting radar waves.
The smooth curve of the body of an airplane acts like a convex mirror, reflecting radio waves back to the radar antenna, to locate the airplane.
Convex mirror can give a much wider view.
Extras
Rays that travel to where a convex mirror parallel to near the principal axis, will reflect back and spread out, away from each other. (diverge)
For an object in a convex mirror, the virtual, upright image is smaller than the object.
You can predict the location and size of an image in a convex Mirror by drawing the bottom of the object on the principal axis and drawing at least two rays that travel from the top of the object toward the mirror.
The focal length of a convex mirror is negative because the f is virtual and behind the mirror.
Why do the edges of a concave or convex mirror distort?
The edges of concave or convex mirrors distort because the curved surface reflects light at different angles. In concave mirrors, light at the edges reflects more sharply, and in convex mirrors, light spreads out more, causing distortion at the edges.