Question

State three differences between real image and virtual image.

Answer 1

- Hint: Real image is formed by the actual intersection of light rays, while virtual image, light rays appear to meet at a point when extended.

Complete step-by-step solution -

Real Image	Virtual Image
A real image is formed when the rays of light converge and meet/ intersect at some point of the space. As such these images can be caught on screen	A virtual image is formed when light rays after reflection or refraction appear to be emanating from a certain point in space without actually meeting at that point. As such these images cannot be caught on screen.
A real image is generally inverted.	A virtual image is generally erect.
A real image is formed in front of the mirror, and can be formed only by a concave mirror. As for lenses, real image is formed only if the object is placed further away from a converging lens. The image is formed behind the lens	A virtual image is formed behind the mirror and can be formed by concave, convex and plane mirror. Also, virtual images are formed when using a diverging lens and when the object is placed near to the converging lens. The image is formed in front of the lens.

Note: Image formation is quite easy if imagined visually, rather than students trying to learn every single detail. They should try to workout ray diagrams in mind. Anywhere the rays are converging after reflection or refraction, real images are formed. Whenever they are diverging a virtual image is formed.