2007-05-01 13:58:32 · 5 answers · asked by mbo 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
I believe that it is the curve of the mirror that does it.
If the mirror was perfectly flat, then everything would appear normal, BUT the "blind spot" that the mirror could not see would be bigger.
By curving the mirror, you get a wider field of view -- thus reducing the blind spot -- but at the same time, a curved mirror distorts what you see.
You can't have it all, apparently. Either have a blind spot, or else have a distorted reflection.
2007-05-01 14:03:59 · answer #1 · answered by Randy G 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Good question.The right hand rear view mirror is not designed to make other vehicles look smaller or farther away. They are designed to give you a wider field of view. The fact that things look farther away is just a phenomenon, (be it unwanted) due to the shape (convex) of the mirror.
2007-05-01 21:13:48 · answer #2 · answered by bigguy3214 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's not as if it is made to make things look far away, but it is convex so you have a larger viewing range. More light is aimed in your direction than a flat mirror would allow.
Convex is sort of this shape -front [) back of car-.
2007-05-01 21:05:43 · answer #3 · answered by Durkle 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the same reason you should have one for a bathroom mirror, cuz you can reassure yourself when you read that phrase "objects are larger than they appear".
2007-05-01 21:05:47 · answer #4 · answered by Dudeman 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
so you can see more
2007-05-01 21:10:49 · answer #5 · answered by cypress7602 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋