Virtual Image and Real Image

Image

An image may be defined as that point, where the light rays coming from an object meet or appears to meet after reflection or refraction.

In this definition the word ‘object’ may be defined as anything which gives out light rays. The objects can be of two types: (1) very small objects and (2) large objects or extended objects. The small objects are represented by a dot in a ray diagram, while the large objects can be represented by an arrow pointing in upward direction.

Types of Images

The images are of two types:

1. Real images
2. Virtual images

Real Images

A real image is that image which is formed when the light rays coming from an object actually meet each other after reflection or refraction. A real image can be obtained on the screen. The real image is always inverted. The common example of real image is the image formed on the cinema screen.

Virtual Image

A virtual image is that image which is formed when the light rays coming from an object do not actually meet, but appear to meet when produced backwards. These images cannot be obtained on the screen. The virtual image is always erect. The common example of virtual image is the image formed in the mirror when we stand in front of that mirror.

Differences between Real Images and Virtual Images

Test Your Understanding and Answer These Questions:

1. Define object.
2. Define image.
3. Give types of objects.
4. What are types of image?
5. Define real image. Give one example.
6. Define virtual image. Give one example.
7. Give differences between real and virtual image.