What is the Difference Between Mirror and Lens?

The main difference between a mirror and a lens lies in their construction and working principles. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Reflection vs. Refraction: Mirrors work on the principle of reflection, reflecting light that falls on their surface. Lenses, on the other hand, work on the principle of refraction, bending light as it passes through them.
2. Surface: Mirrors have one important surface, which can be either plane (flat) or spherical (curved). Lenses have two surfaces that both affect the light that passes through them.
3. Image Formation: Mirrors produce images by reflection on only one surface. Lenses produce images by refraction in any surface of the two surfaces.
4. Focal Point: Mirrors do not have a focal point, while lenses have two focal points.
5. Material: Mirrors are made of glass with a reflective coating on one side. Lenses are made of transparent materials, such as glass or plastic.
6. Types: There are three types of mirrors: plane mirrors, convex mirrors, and concave mirrors. Lenses are classified into various types, including simple lenses and compound lenses, and depending on the type of refraction, they can be concave or convex lenses.

Mirrors are commonly used in houses, automobiles, solar appliances, and other everyday applications. Lenses are used in astronomy, scientific industries, medical and research purposes, photography, telescopes, microscopes, and more.

Comparative Table: Mirror vs Lens

Here is a table highlighting the differences between mirrors and lenses:

Mirrors work based on the principle of reflection, reflecting light from their surfaces, while lenses work through refraction, bending light as it passes through the medium. Mirrors have reflective coatings on one side, whereas lenses are transparent and have refractive surfaces. Mirrors are available in three main types: plane, concave, and convex, while lenses are available in two main types: convex and concave.