Which term describes a diverging mirror?

A diverging mirror is best described as a convex mirror. Convex mirrors are characterized by their outward-curving shape, which causes light rays that strike the mirror to diverge or spread out. When parallel rays of light hit a convex mirror, they reflect outward, making it appear as if they are coming from a point behind the mirror, which is known as the virtual focus. This property allows convex mirrors to provide a wider field of vision, which is why they are commonly used in situations such as vehicle side mirrors and security mirrors.

In contrast, a concave mirror has an inward-curving shape, causing light rays to converge or come together at a point. Cylindrical mirrors have a specific shape that is not typically categorized as diverging in the same manner, and spherical mirrors can be either concave or convex but do not exclusively refer to one type. Thus, convex mirrors accurately describe the characteristics of a diverging mirror.