A mirror is a surface that reflects a clear image. Most commonly, it's a sheet of glass coated on its back with a reflective material, such as silver, aluminum, or chrome. This thin, metallic layer is then often protected by a layer of paint to prevent scratches and corrosion. When light waves strike this smooth, polished surface, they bounce back in a predictable way, allowing us to see a replica of objects placed in front of it. Mirrors come in various forms, from flat panes that offer a true-to-life reflection, widely used in homes for personal grooming and decor, to curved mirrors like convex (which make objects appear smaller and wider) and concave (which magnify and focus light), which have applications in everything from vehicle rearview mirrors to telescopes and dental tools. Beyond their practical uses, mirrors are also potent symbolic objects in art and literature, representing reflection, illusion, self-awareness, and hidden truths.