Difference Between Plane Mirror and Spherical Mirror

 

Difference Between Plane Mirror and Spherical Mirror

1. Definition

Plane Mirror
A mirror with a flat reflecting surface.

Spherical Mirror
A mirror whose reflecting surface is part of a sphere. It is of two types:

Concave Mirror

Convex Mirror

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2. Surface Shape

Plane Mirror → Flat surface
Spherical Mirror → Curved surface (part of a sphere)

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3. Types

Plane Mirror → Only one type

Spherical Mirror → 2 types
• Concave mirror
• Convex mirror

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4. Image Formation

Plane Mirror:

Always forms virtual and erect image

Image size = object size
Image formed behind the mirror

Spherical Mirror:

Concave Mirror:

Can form real & inverted image

Can form virtual & erect image (if object is very close)
Image size may be enlarged, diminished, or same

Convex Mirror:

Always forms virtual, erect, and diminished image

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5. Focus

Plane Mirror:

No real focus

Focal length = Infinity

Spherical Mirror:

Has a definite focus

Focal length = Radius of curvature / 2

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6. Field of View

Plane Mirror → Limited field of view

Convex Mirror → Large field of view (used as rear-view mirror)

Concave Mirror → Small field of view

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7. Uses

Plane Mirror:

Dressing mirror

Periscope

Concave Mirror:

Shaving mirror

Headlights of vehicles
Solar furnace

Convex Mirror:

Rear-view mirrors in vehicles

Security mirrors in shops

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Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Plane Mirror	Spherical Mirror
Surface	Flat	Curved
Types	One	Two (Concave & Convex)
Focus	No focus	Has focus
Image Size	Same as object	May change
Image Nature	Always virtual	Real or virtual

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