Do Concave Mirrors Always Form Real Images?

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SUMMARY

Concave mirrors do not always form real images; they can produce virtual images when the object is located closer to the mirror than its focal point. For example, makeup and shaving mirrors, which are slightly concave, create erect virtual images. As the object moves closer to the center of curvature, the image transitions from virtual to real and inverted. Understanding these principles is essential for practical applications, such as using concave mirrors in everyday objects like spoons.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of concave mirror properties
  • Knowledge of focal points and center of curvature
  • Basic optics principles
  • Experience with image formation in mirrors
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematics behind concave mirror image formation
  • Explore practical applications of concave mirrors in optical devices
  • Learn about the differences between concave and convex mirrors
  • Investigate the effects of varying object distances on image characteristics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone interested in the practical applications of concave mirrors in everyday life.

uday01
i want to know the concave mirros is always real images or any difference then how to calculate

thanks and regards
Uday
 
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No, if the object is closer to the mirror than the focal point, the image formed is virtual.
 
uday01 said:
i want to know the concave mirros is always real images or any difference then how to calculate

thanks and regards
Uday
Makeup and shaving mirrors are (slightly) concave and form an 'erect', virtual image. Retreat to the centre of curvature and the image swells up, gets distorted and then flips to a real, 'inverted' image. Put your eye very close to the bowl of a spoon and you get a virtual image but the radius of curvature is so small that it can be difficult to see it well; the image that you see is usually real because of the size of the spoon. You can tel this because you can put your finger right next to it. Have a play and prove it all.
Then look at this link.
 
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