A concave mirror is a type of curved mirror in which the surface curves inward, creating a concave shape. This type of mirror is also known as a converging mirror, as it focuses light rays that enter it parallel to its axis to a single point known as the focal point.
A concave mirror works by reflecting light rays that enter it parallel to its axis towards a single focal point. The shape of the mirror causes the light rays to converge, resulting in an image that is larger and inverted compared to the object.
Concave mirrors are used in various applications, including telescopes, headlights of cars, and makeup mirrors. They are also used in dentistry to get a magnified view of teeth and in solar energy systems to concentrate sunlight onto a small surface area.
The focal length of a concave mirror can be calculated using the formula f = R/2, where f is the focal length and R is the radius of curvature of the mirror. The radius of curvature is the distance between the center of the mirror and its focal point.
A concave mirror curves inward, while a convex mirror curves outward. Concave mirrors produce enlarged and inverted images, whereas convex mirrors produce smaller and upright images. Convex mirrors have a wider field of view compared to concave mirrors.