Why are convex mirrors preferred to plane mirrors as rear-view mirrors?
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: Convex mirrors are preferred to plane mirrors as rear-view mirrors because they provide a wider field of view.
Explanation:
Convex mirrors are curved outward, which allows them to reflect light from a larger area compared to plane mirrors. This property makes them highly suitable for use as rear-view mirrors in vehicles. The primary reason convex mirrors are preferred is that they allow drivers to see more of the road and surrounding area behind the vehicle, reducing blind spots and improving safety.
A plane mirror reflects light in a way that maintains the actual size and distance of objects. However, its field of view is limited to what lies directly behind the driver. This means a driver using only a plane mirror may not be able to see vehicles approaching from the sides unless they fall within the narrow reflection range.
In contrast, a convex mirror bends light rays outward, which makes images appear smaller than they really are. Although this causes a slight distortion in the size of the objects, it allows a greater area to be captured in the reflection. This wide-angle view enables the driver to monitor multiple lanes of traffic and observe other vehicles or obstacles that would not be visible using a plane mirror.
Another advantage of convex mirrors is that the smaller image size does not significantly hinder the driver’s ability to detect motion or recognize vehicles. Drivers can still make safe decisions based on what they observe, and the reduced image size is a worthwhile trade-off for the expanded field of vision.
Therefore, convex mirrors are considered safer and more effective for use as rear-view mirrors, especially in fast-moving traffic or crowded urban environments where quick decisions are essential.