Question

What is the difference between convex and concave mirror? Choose the correct statement.
(A). A convex mirror is curved outwards, and concave mirror is curved inwards
(B). The focal point is in front of the convex mirror, and for a concave mirror, it is behind
(C). Centre of curvature is in front of the convex mirror, and for a concave mirror, it is behind
(D). None of these

Answer 1

- Hint: Think of a spoon. Front of a spoon is concave, and back of a spoon is convex
The correct option is a. The surface of the convex mirror bulges outward and the surface of concave mirror recess inwards.

Complete step-by-step solution -
Both the convex and concave mirror is a part of an imaginary sphere. The fundamental difference between them is that the reflective surface of a concave mirror is inside the sphere and that of a convex mirror is outside.

Convex mirror:
The outer surface of the spherical mirror is reflecting.
It forms virtual and erect images.\
The image formed is always smaller than the actual size.
Its focus point lies at behind its reflecting surface
Concave mirror:
The inner surface of the spherical mirror is reflecting.
It forms a real-inverted image and also virtual-erect pictures.
The image formed can be larger or smaller than the actual size.
Its focus point lies at the front of its reflecting surface

Note: Students usually confuse which is concave and which is convex. So remember that the front part of a spoon is concave and the back part of a spoon is convex.