In physics, a mirror is a surface that reflects almost all light that hits it. Mirrors work by reflecting light in a regular pattern until something opaque is placed between the light source and the mirror.

Some more details:

Types of mirrors:
Mirrors can be flat (plane mirrors) or curved (spherical mirrors). Spherical mirrors can be further categorized into convex and concave mirrors.

How mirrors work:
The law of reflection explains how mirrors work. When light hits a mirror, the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection, and all three rays (incident, reflected, and normal) lie in the same plane.

How mirrors create images:
Light reflects off a mirror and forms an image that can be seen by the eye or a camera. This image can make it seem like objects are behind or in front of the mirror.

How mirrors are made:
Mirrors are often made by adding a thin layer of reflective material, like tin or aluminum, to a piece of glass.
Other uses for the word "mirror"
The term "mirror" can also refer to objects that reflect other types of waves, like sound waves.

What is a Mirror?
A mirror is a reflective surface, typically made of glass with a metallic coating, that reflects light to form images. Mirrors are commonly used in households, vehicles, and various optical instruments for reflection purposes.
Difference Between Object and its Image in a Mirror
Understanding the distinction between an object and its image is crucial for grasping how mirrors work. Here are the key differences:

• Definition:
  
  • An object is a physical item that emits or reflects light.
  • An image is the reproduction of the object created by the reflection of light in the mirror.
  
  
  
  
• Location:
  
  • The object exists in the real world and can be touched.
  • The image appears to be behind the mirror and cannot be touched.
  
  
  
  
• Orientation:
  
  • The image is a mirror image of the object, meaning it is laterally inverted (flipped side to side).
  • The object maintains its original orientation when viewed from the front.
  
  
  
  
• Size:
  
  • The size of the image can vary depending on the type of mirror (concave or convex).
  • In plane mirrors, the image size is equal to that of the object.
  
  
  
  
• Real vs. Virtual:
  
  • Objects are real and can exist independently.
  • Images formed in mirrors are virtual, meaning they cannot be projected onto a screen.
  
  
  
  

Understanding these differences can help in applications ranging from simple household uses to complex optical technologies.