Define image? What are different types of images formed

An image is a visual representation formed when light interacts with a mirror or lens. Its nature depends on whether rays actually meet or only seem to.

Real image

• Formation: Rays converge at a point after reflection/refraction.
• Projection: Can be put on a screen.
• Appearance: Usually inverted (e.g., cinema screen).

Virtual image

• Formation: Rays don’t meet; they only appear to diverge from a point.
• Projection: Cannot be put on a screen.
• Appearance: Usually upright (e.g., plane mirror).

How images form

Light from an object hits a reflecting or refracting surface. The image location is where rays converge (real) or appear to diverge (virtual).