Table of Contents
- Difference between Real and Virtual images
- Summary
- What’s Next?
In the previous segment, we learned about spherical mirrors. In this segment, we will learn about the difference between a real and a virtual image.
Difference between Real and Virtual Image
- Virtual Image: an image that cannot be projected on a screen is called a virtual image. Virtual images are erect.
The image formed by a plane mirror is an example of a virtual image.
We know that in a plane mirror, it appears that the image is formed behind the mirror. But if a screen is kept, such as a white cardboard sheet, anywhere behind the mirror, then the image will not be projected on this screen. This is true for any position of the screen and the mirror.
Why does a virtual image cannot be projected on a screen?
The reason being that the reflecting surface of a mirror is opaque. It reflects all the light from the object which is incident on it. Hence the light does not reach the region behind the mirror. And because of this, the image is not formed behind the mirror and thus it cannot be projected on a screen.
The Image is not formed anywhere in real space. This is the reason the image is called a
‘virtual’ image.
- Real Image: an image that can be projected on a screen is called a real image. Real images are inverted.
