What type of mirror is used in car rearview mirrors?
2 Answers
Car rearview mirrors use convex mirrors, which have a spherical shape with varying radii of curvature. These mirrors produce smaller images than what the eye sees but offer a wider field of view, similar to the effect of a camera's "wide-angle lens." Hence, they are also referred to as wide-angle mirrors. This type of mirror is typically used for exterior rearview mirrors and lower rearview mirrors. Car rearview mirrors are located on the left and right sides of the vehicle's front and inside the car's cabin. They reflect the conditions behind, beside, and below the car, allowing the driver to indirectly observe these areas. Serving as a "second pair of eyes," they significantly expand the driver's field of vision. As an essential safety component, the mirror surface, shape, and operation of car rearview mirrors are carefully designed.
I've been studying automotive design and know that convex mirrors, also known as concave-convex mirrors, are commonly used for rearview mirrors. This type of mirror has an outwardly curved surface that expands the field of vision, allowing you to see more of the side and rear while driving. For example, when changing lanes, it reduces blind spot risks and is safer than the narrow reflective view of flat mirrors. Of course, objects may appear smaller or farther away, so beginners need time to adjust. In practice, most vehicles come equipped with convex mirrors from the factory, often paired with blind spot monitoring systems for enhanced effectiveness. Remember to regularly check if the mirror surface is clear and don't neglect cleaning, as this directly affects visual accuracy. Overall, this choice has been optimized for safety through extensive testing.
