Question

Name the type of mirror used as a shaving mirror.
A. Concave Mirror
B. Convex Mirror
C. Plane mirror
D. None of the above

Answer 1

We must know the nature of images formed by both spherical mirrors and plane mirrors to answer this. Then we will need to find the nature of image required in the shaving mirror. Then we will compare it with images formed by different mirrors and select the right one.

Complete step-by-step answer:
We will discuss images formed by different mirrors.
Concave Mirror: - Images formed by a concave mirror are real and inverted. If an object is placed at infinity or beyond the center of curvature, then the size of the image is smaller than that of the object. If the object is placed at the center of curvature, then the image is of the same size. And if the object is placed between the center of curvature and focus, the size of the image is larger than the object. In special cases, that is when the object is placed between pole and focus, an image formed by a concave mirror is virtual, erect and enlarged.

Convex Mirror: - Images formed by a convex mirror are virtual, erect and diminished for an object placed anywhere between pole and infinity or at infinity.

Plane Mirror: - Image formed by a plane mirror is always virtual, erect, and of the same size as the object.

Now, if we look at a shaving mirror, they are used to view the enlarged image of the face. To view the enlarged image of the face, we should use concave mirrors because they form a virtual, erect, and enlarged image when an object is placed near the mirror. i.e. between pole and focus.

So, the correct answer is “Option A”.

Note: We must know that, In case of a plane mirror and a convex mirror, magnified images will not be observed. To understand the images formed by mirrors when an object is placed at different positions, ray diagrams can be formed. They give a better and clear understanding.