30 June 2020

Difference Between Real Image and Virtual Image

Real image and virtual image are two classifications of the image that is formed by reflection or refraction of light rays. The main key difference between the real image and a virtual image is that the real images are formed when light rays actually meet at a point after getting reflected or refracted from a mirror. Here this article gives information about the main key difference between the real image and virtual image to better understand this topic.

Definition of real image:


The real image is the type of image that is formed due to the convergence of light rays at a point after being reflected or refracted from a mirror or lens. Real images are formed at the point where light rays undergo interaction with each other. 

Definition of virtual image:


Virtual images are that only appear to be formed at a position behind a mirror. In actuality, the image is not present there. Unlike the real images, a virtual image is formed when reflected or refracted rays get diverged.

The main key difference between the real image and virtual image:

  • Real images are formed when light rays after reflection or refraction converge at a point before a mirror or lens. While a virtual image is formed when the light rays diverge after reflection or refraction.
  • Real images appear on the screen as against virtual images never appear on the screen.
  • Real images are inverted in nature while the virtual image appears erect.
  • Real images are formed due to the actual interaction of real rays, virtual images are formed when light rays imaginarily interact with each other.
  • The front of the mirror forms real images, whereas virtual images are assumed to be formed behind the mirror.
  • Generally, a concave mirror or convex lenses form a real image, plane mirror, convex mirror, and concave lens are regarded as the virtual image forming surfaces.
  • Converging types of lenses are used to produce a real image, whereas a diverging lens is used for the formation of virtual images.
  • In the case of the real image, the light rays diverge from the same side of the mirror after converging and forming the real image, while in the virtual image, the light rays assumed to diverge from a point somewhere behind the mirror.
  • Real image used in a cinema screen, virtual image used in the plane.
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