– Why do car rear-view mirrors reflect different images?
Manufacturers use three layers. The main one is a super-polished metal surface, which reflects light very well and is located in the middle of the mirror. Behind it, there is a dark layer, usually black paint, which absorbs the light that comes from behind the mirror and prevents it from “leaking” through the reflective layer of metal. In front of the metal is a layer of glass, which gives the mirror solidity and protects the metallic film against scratches that distort the reflection of light rays. A good mirror reflects 90% of the light rays that fall on it. Therefore, the manufacturing process is delicate. The initial step is cleaning and polishing the glass. That done, it’s time to apply a layer of silver, the metal most used in today’s mirrors, along with a chemical that makes it adhere completely to the glass. The third step is to spray a coat of black paint behind the silver surface. As this metal is sensitive to the environment, manufacturers prefer to use waterproof black paints – moisture is one of the main enemies of silver. Afterwards, the artifact passes through a kiln to dry the paint. And the mirror is ready for you to admire your beauty!