The Glass:
* Traditional Mirrors: Most car mirrors use soda-lime glass, which is a common, inexpensive type of glass.
* Higher-End Vehicles: Some luxury cars might use tempered glass, which is stronger and less likely to shatter into sharp pieces if broken.
The Reflective Coating:
* Silver: The most common reflective coating is a thin layer of silver. This is applied to the back of the glass and gives the mirror its reflective property.
* Aluminum: Sometimes, aluminum is used as the reflective coating. This is less expensive than silver but may not be as reflective.
* Other Coatings: Some modern car mirrors have additional coatings that reduce glare, improve visibility at night, or provide other functionalities.
The Backing:
* Protective Layer: The reflective coating is protected by a layer of paint or plastic to prevent oxidation and damage.
Additional Materials:
* Plastic: Some car mirrors are made entirely of plastic, particularly in older vehicles or smaller mirrors.
* Heating Elements: Rearview mirrors may have built-in heating elements to prevent fogging in cold weather. These elements are typically made of thin wires or a conductive film.
It's worth noting that car mirror technology is constantly evolving, and new materials and coatings are being developed.
