What effect do convex mirrors have on the appearance of vehicles?

Convex mirrors are designed to provide a broader field of view, which is particularly useful for motorcycle riders and drivers of larger vehicles when maneuvering or changing lanes. The curvature of a convex mirror causes light rays to diverge, giving a wider perspective of what is behind and beside the vehicle.

As a result, this wider view can lead to the appearance of vehicles looking further away than their actual distance. This is important for riders and drivers to understand, as it can affect their judgment about the proximity of other vehicles. When you see vehicles in a convex mirror, they may appear smaller and more distant than they actually are, which can impact decision-making on the road.

Understanding this characteristic of convex mirrors can help motorcyclists assess their surroundings more accurately and make better-informed decisions while riding.