\t1Meaning and Other NamesConcave means rounded or hollowed like the interior of a circle or sphereAlso called as a converging mirror.Convex means rounded or curved like the exterior of a circle or sphere.Also called as a fish eye or diverging mirror.2Mirror Shape3StructureThe mirror coating of the concave mirror is on the outside of the spherical surface.In concave mirrors, the centre of curvature and the reflecting surface fall on the same side of the mirror.The mirror coating of the convex mirror is on the inside of the spherical surface.In convex mirrors, the centre of curvature and the reflecting surface fall on the opposite side of the mirror.4Position of the FocusFocus lies in front of the mirror i.e. focal length, is positive.The focus lies behind the mirror i.e. focal length is negative.5Image PropertiesThe image formed by a concave mirror is real, inverted and enlarged (except when the object is between P and F where the image is virtual, erect and enlarged).The image formed by a convex mirror is virtual, erect and diminished.6Image ProjectionAn image can be projected on a screen as they are real.Image cannot be projected on a screen as they are virtual.7UsageThey are used in reflecting telescopes, shaving mirrors, torchlights, etc. as they give a magnified image of the objects.Convex mirrors are used as side view or rearview mirrors in vehicles as they cover a wider area of view.\t