What type of mirror is commonly used in vehicle side mirrors for safety?

Convex mirrors are commonly used in vehicle side mirrors because they provide a wider field of view compared to flat or concave mirrors. The outward-curved surface of a convex mirror allows it to capture more of the scene behind and to the side of the vehicle, which helps drivers notice other vehicles and obstacles that might be in blind spots. This enhanced visibility improves safety when changing lanes or merging, as it reduces the chances of accidents caused by not seeing approaching vehicles.

Additionally, images formed by convex mirrors are virtual, upright, and smaller than the actual object, which allows drivers to see a larger area while still maintaining a view of nearby objects. These characteristics make convex mirrors particularly effective for the specific needs of a vehicle's side mirror, further reinforcing why they are the standard choice for this purpose.