Do convex mirrors make objects appear closer than they actually are?

Convex mirrors do not make objects appear closer than they actually are. Instead, they create a wider field of view and make objects appear smaller and farther away. This optical property is due to the shape of the mirror; a convex surface causes light rays to diverge, which alters the perception of distance and size of objects reflected in the mirror.

Therefore, when you look into a convex mirror, you typically see more area, but the objects will appear reduced in size and seem further away than they are in reality. This characteristic is particularly useful for applications like vehicle side mirrors, as it allows drivers to have a broader view of the surroundings, thereby enhancing safety.