What Is the Difference Between Concave & Convex Mirrors?

A convex mirror curves outward.

Both concave and convex mirrors reflect light. However, one curves inward while the other curves outward. These mirrors also reflect images and light differently because of the placement of their focal points.

Principal Axis

The principal axis is an imaginary line that cuts through the center of a mirror dividing it symmetrically in half. Imagine this as a curve on a piece of paper.

Focal Point

The focal point is a spot on the principal axis where light would intersect if it were to strike the mirror parallel to the principal axis.

Shape

Concave mirrors curve inward, creating a focal point in front of the mirror. Convex mirrors curve outward creating a focal point behind the mirror.

Concave Image

Because of their shape and focal point placement, images in concave mirrors appear upside down and far away. However, when you move closer, the object enlarges. If you get close enough, the object enlarges more and the image is right-side up.

Convex Image

In a convex mirror, images appear right-side up, shrunken and virtual, or placed somewhere behind the mirror.

References

• A to Z of Optics: Mirrors, Flat Mirrors, Convex Mirrors and Concave Mirrors - How Mirrors Work
• Mr. Clintberg's Studyphysics: Lesson 61: Concave & Convex Mirrors