In a convex mirror, objects seem __ than they actually are.
Answers
Larger
Smaller
Closer
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: Smaller
Explanation:
A convex mirror is a type of spherical mirror where the reflective surface bulges outward, opposite to that of a concave mirror, which curves inward. Convex mirrors are commonly used in rearview mirrors in cars, security mirrors, and streetlights, as they provide a wide field of view.
The key optical principle at play is image formation in convex mirrors. When light rays hit the curved reflective surface of the convex mirror, they diverge after reflection. The reflected rays never actually meet in real space but appear to originate from a single point behind the mirror. This is why the image formed in a convex mirror is virtual, meaning it cannot be projected onto a screen, as the rays only appear to meet when extended backward.
In terms of size, the image formed by a convex mirror is always smaller than the actual object. This occurs because the light rays spread out after reflection, making the object appear reduced in size. The image is also upright and virtual, but it is smaller than the object because the rays diverge as they reflect off the mirror.
Further explanation:
The size of the image is determined by the curvature of the mirror and the distance of the object from the mirror. The closer the object is to the mirror, the smaller and more diminished the image will appear. Even though the object might be relatively large, the diverging light rays cause the image to appear at a much smaller scale. This phenomenon is consistent across all convex mirrors, making them ideal for applications where a wide field of view is needed, like in rearview mirrors.
In summary, the convex mirror causes objects to seem smaller than they actually are due to the nature of the reflection, where the light rays diverge after hitting the mirror, creating a diminished and virtual image.