INSIGHT UPSC QUIZ

Science & Technology General Science
Q.

With reference to the uses of ‘concave mirrors’, read the following statements carefully:

1. They are commonly used in vehicles headlights to get powerful parallel beams of light. 

2. They are often used as shaving mirrors to see a larger image of the face. 

3. They are fitted on the sides of the vehicle to have a wider field of view.

4. Large concave mirrors are used to concentrate sunlight to produce heat in solar furnaces.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Explanation:

ANSWER: (C) 

Concave Vs Convex Mirrors

  • The reflecting surface of a spherical mirror may be curved inwards or outwards. A spherical mirror, whose reflecting surface is curved inwards, that is, faces towards the centre of the sphere, is called a concave mirror. A spherical mirror whose reflecting surface is curved outwards, is called a convex mirror.

Uses of concave mirrors

  • Concave mirrors are commonly used in torches, search-lights and vehicles headlights to get powerful parallel beams of light. 
  • They are often used as shaving mirrors to see a larger image of the face. 
  • The dentists use concave mirrors to see large images of the teeth of patients.
  • Large concave mirrors are used to concentrate sunlight to produce heat in solar furnaces. 

Uses of convex mirrors

  • Convex mirrors are commonly used as rear-view (wing) mirrors in vehicles. 
  • These mirrors are fitted on the sides of the vehicle, enabling the driver to see traffic behind him/her to facilitate safe driving. 
  • Convex mirrors are preferred because they always give an erect, though diminished, image. Also, they have a wider field of view as they are curved outwards. 

Thus, convex mirrors enable the driver to view much larger area than would be possible with a plane mirror. 

More Questions Selected Just For You. Attempt Now!