Final answer:
A convex mirror offers a wider field of view because it reflects light rays in a diverging manner. The result is a case 3 virtual image that is upright and smaller than the object. This enables the mirror to capture a larger portion of the environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
A convex mirror, also known as a diverging mirror, is known for its wider field of view. This characteristic arises because the mirror's curved surface causes light rays reflecting off it to diverge. Unlike a concave mirror, a convex mirror displays only one type of image. Specifically, convex mirrors produce what is called a case 3 image. This image is both upright and smaller than the actual object, akin to the imagery created by diverging lenses.
Ray tracing techniques are commonly used to demonstrate how a convex mirror reflects light and forms an image. As per ray-tracing diagrams, after reflection, light rays appear to emanate from a virtual point behind the mirror. This virtual image cannot be projected onto a screen because it doesn't exist in reality; it's merely a perceived location from which the light rays appear to come. The diminished size of the image viewed in a convex mirror contributes to the mirror's broadened field of vision, allowing more of the surroundings to be captured in the reflected view when compared to a flat or concave mirror.
Therefore, the appropriate answer is that a convex mirror's broader field of view stems from its ability to reflect light rays in a diverging manner, resulting in a smaller, virtual image that encompasses more of the environment.