The centre of curvature of a concave mirror lies ______ the mirror, whereas it lies ______ the mirror for a convex. mirror. 

The Correct answer is in front of, behind.

Key Points

• The centre of curvature of a spherical mirror is the center of the sphere from which the mirror is made.
• For a concave mirror, the reflecting surface curves inward, and the centre of curvature lies in front of the mirror. This is because the center of the sphere is located on the same side as the reflecting surface.
• For a convex mirror, the reflecting surface curves outward, and the centre of curvature lies behind the mirror. The center of the sphere is located on the opposite side of the reflecting surface.
• The pole, radius of curvature, and principal axis are other important terms related to spherical mirrors. These terms help define the geometry and behavior of these mirrors.
• Understanding the position of the centre of curvature is essential for ray diagrams and calculating focal lengths in optics.

 Additional Information

• Behind, in front of
  • This option incorrectly states the positions of the centre of curvature for concave and convex mirrors.
  • In a concave mirror, the centre of curvature is always in front, not behind.
• In front of, in front
  • This option incorrectly suggests that the centre of curvature for both concave and convex mirrors lies in front.
  • However, in a convex mirror, the centre of curvature is behind because the reflecting surface curves outward.
• Behind, behind
  • This option incorrectly states that the centre of curvature for both types of mirrors is behind.
  • In reality, the concave mirror's centre of curvature is in front, while the convex mirror's is behind.