Magnification produced by a rear view mirror fitted in vehicles

• A. Is less than one
• B. Is more than one
• C. Is equal to one
• D. Can be more than or less than one depending upon the position of the object in front of it.

When it comes to the magnification produced by a rearview mirror in vehicles, the correct answer is A: less than one. This is because rearview mirrors are typically designed as convex mirrors, which have specific optical properties that affect how they reflect images.

Understanding Convex Mirrors

Convex mirrors are curved outward, which means they diverge light rays that strike their surface. This divergence causes the images formed by these mirrors to appear smaller than the actual objects. The key characteristics of convex mirrors include:

• Image Size: The images produced are diminished, meaning they are smaller than the object.
• Field of View: They provide a wider field of view, allowing drivers to see more of the area behind them.
• Image Orientation: The images are virtual and upright, which means they cannot be projected onto a screen.

Magnification Explained

In optics, magnification is defined as the ratio of the height of the image to the height of the object. For convex mirrors, this ratio is always less than one. To illustrate this concept, consider the following example:

Imagine a car that is 1.5 meters tall. When viewed in a convex rearview mirror, the image of the car might appear to be only 1 meter tall. The magnification (M) can be calculated as:

M = Height of Image / Height of Object = 1 meter / 1.5 meters = 0.67

This value of 0.67 indicates that the image is smaller than the actual object, confirming that the magnification is indeed less than one.

Why Use Convex Mirrors?

The design choice for using convex mirrors in vehicles is primarily for safety and practicality. Here are a few reasons:

• Increased Visibility: They allow drivers to see a larger area, which is crucial for avoiding blind spots.
• Safety: By providing a wider view, they help prevent accidents when changing lanes or reversing.
• Compact Design: Their shape allows for a more compact mirror that can fit into the design of the vehicle without obstructing the driver's view.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the magnification produced by a rearview mirror in vehicles is less than one due to the properties of convex mirrors. This design choice enhances safety by providing a broader view of the surroundings, making it easier for drivers to navigate safely on the road.