Convex (Diverging) Mirrors Study Notes

Core Components of Convex (Diverging) Mirrors

  • Centre of curvature: The centre of the sphere whose surface has been used to make the mirror.

  • Principal axis: The line through the centre of curvature to the midpoint of the mirror.

  • Vertex: The point where the principal axis meets the mirror.

Rules for Locating Images in Convex Mirrors

  1. Ray 1: Draw an incident ray from the top of the object parallel to the principal axis; it reflects in a way that aligns with the focal point ff.

  2. Ray 2: Draw an incident ray from the top of the object directed toward ff; it reflects parallel to the principal axis.

  3. Convergence: Since reflected rays do not converge in front of a convex mirror, extend the rays behind the mirror; the image is located where these extensions intersect.

Image Characteristics (S.A.L.T.)

  • S (Size): Smaller than the object.

  • A (attitude): Upright.

  • L (Location): Behind the mirror, between the vertex and ff.

  • T (Type): Virtual.

Real-World Applications

  • Automotive Safety: Used in passenger-side mirrors, often accompanied by the warning: "OBJECTS IN MIRROR ARE CLOSER THAN THEY APPEAR."