Differences Between Real and Virtual Images
Here are some key differences between virtual and real images formed after reflection and refraction flight rays:
|
Real Images |
Virtual Images |
|---|---|
| Real images are the images that actually formed after the intersection of light rays after the reflection of refraction of light rays. | Virtual images are images that appear to be formed after the intersection of light rays after the reflection of refraction of light rays. |
| Real images are formed by the convergence of light at a point before a mirror or lens | Virtual images are formed by the divergence of light at a point before a mirror or lens. |
| Real images are inverted in nature. | While virtual images appear erect. |
| Mostly, concave mirrors and convex lenses form real images. | However, plane mirrors, convex mirrors, and concave lenses tend to form virtual images. |
| A real image can be obtained on a screen. | A virtual image cannot be obtained on a screen. But it can be obtained on a mirror or a lens. |
| Formed on different side than that of the object | Formed on the same side as that of the object. |
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Difference between Real and Virtual Images
Real and Virtual Images are the two types of images formed by the reflection and refraction of light rays. The key difference between real and virtual images is that the real image is formed by the actual intersection of light rays after reflection or refraction of light, while the virtual Images are formed when light rays appear to meet at a point in the area beyond the mirror. Hence, to obtain a real image, the light rays converge while to obtain a virtual image, the light rays diverge.
Read more about the real and virtual image, their formation, examples, etc, and the differences between the real and virtual images in this article.
Table of Content
- Real Image
- Virtual Image
- Differences Between Real and Virtual Images