A convex mirror is a type of curved mirror that bulges outward. It is also called a diverging mirror, as it causes light rays to spread out or diverge when they reflect off of it.
A convex mirror reflects light rays away from its surface. When parallel light rays hit a convex mirror, they are reflected in different directions, resulting in a virtual image that is smaller and upright compared to the object.
The image distance in a convex mirror is always negative, meaning that the image is located behind the mirror. The distance between the object and the mirror is always positive. The relationship between the two distances can be described using the equation: 1/f = 1/do + 1/di, where f is the focal length of the mirror, do is the object distance, and di is the image distance.
The size of the object does not affect the image distance in a convex mirror. This is because the image distance is solely determined by the location and curvature of the mirror, and not the size of the object.
Convex mirrors are commonly used as safety mirrors in parking lots, roads, and driveways to provide a wide view of the surroundings and prevent accidents. They are also used in security cameras, telescopes, and side mirrors on vehicles. Additionally, convex mirrors are used in makeup and shaving mirrors to provide a wider field of view.