Center of Curvature (C)
Definition
The center of curvature is the center point of a sphere from which a curved mirror or lens is derived.
Analogy
Imagine you have a giant bubblegum bubble. The center of curvature would be like the exact spot in the middle where you blew up and stretched out the gum before it formed into a round shape.
Related terms
Radius of Curvature (R): The distance between the center of curvature and any point on the curved surface.
Concave Mirror/Lens: A mirror/lens that curves inward, with its center of curvature in front.
Convex Mirror/Lens: A mirror/lens that curves outward, with its center of curvature behind.
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