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Question
Why does a driver use a convex mirror instead of a plane mirror as a rear view mirror?
Illustrate your answer with the help of a ray diagram.
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Solution
A convex mirror diverges the incident beam and always forms a virtual, small and erect image between its pole and focus. Thus, a driver can see all the traffic approaching from behind. This fact enables the driver to use it as a rear view in vehicles to see all the traffic approaching from behind.

RELATED QUESTIONS
Define the terms pole, principal axis and centre of curvature with reference to a spherical mirror.
Figure shows a concave mirror with its pole at P, focus F and centre of curvature C. Draw ray diagram to show the formation of image of an object OA.

Does the mirror mentioned in part (b) form real image for all locations of the object?
Draw a ray diagram to show the formation of the image, when the object is placed between optical centre and principal focus of a convex lens.
State the signs and values of magnifications in the above mentioned case.
An object 5 cm high forms a virtual image of 1.25 cm high, when placed in front of a convex mirror at a distance of 24 cm. Calculate:
- the position of the image
- the focal length of the convex mirror.
Define the following term in relation to concave mirror.
Pole
Define focal length.
How tall does a mirror have to be to fit an entire person’s body?
