Are Car Rearview Mirrors Convex Mirrors?
2 Answers
Car rearview mirrors are convex mirrors. Except for the interior rearview mirror, the exterior rearview mirrors on both sides of a car are usually convex mirrors. The mirror surface is spherical with varying radii of curvature, producing a smaller image than the actual view but with a wider field of vision, similar to the effect of a camera's wide-angle lens. Hence, some people also refer to them as wide-angle mirrors. The image formed by a convex mirror is upright, reduced, and virtual. The external viewable range through a convex mirror is larger than that of a flat mirror of the same size. Therefore, convex mirrors are installed on the exterior of the car's driver compartment. This allows the driver to see a broader area behind the car when reversing, enhancing safety and reducing the likelihood of hitting people or objects.
As an ordinary car owner who has been driving for over a decade, I can confidently say that car rearview mirrors are indeed convex mirrors. The design is quite ingenious because if you stand behind the car and look closely, you'll notice the mirror surface is slightly curved outward rather than flat. This expands your field of view through the mirror, reduces blind spots behind the vehicle, and helps avoid collisions. I noticed this when I was a beginner driver—it took some getting used to at first because the images appear slightly distorted (e.g., vehicles behind may look smaller or farther away), but once you adapt, you can accurately judge distances. Many automakers adopt this design, including sedans, SUVs, and even some trucks, as safety standards often recommend convex mirrors to ensure driving safety. However, be mindful to keep the mirror surface free from scratches or dust, as these can impair visibility clarity.
