Virtual Image

A virtual image is an optical phenomenon that occurs when light rays appear to converge from a point behind a mirror or lens, rather than actually meeting at that point. This creates the illusion of an image that is not real, but appears as if it could be seen through the optical device.

Key Concepts:

Virtual images are formed by diverging light rays.
They cannot be projected onto a screen.
They are always located on the same side of the mirror or lens as the object.
The image appears to be behind the mirror or lens, and it can appear larger or smaller than the actual object.

Formation of Virtual Images:

Virtual images are formed when the light rays diverge after reflecting off a mirror or passing through a concave lens. These diverging rays appear to originate from a point behind the mirror or lens, creating the virtual image.

Characteristics of Virtual Images:

They cannot be projected onto a screen because they do not actually exist at a specific point in space.
They are always upright and appear to be the same distance behind the mirror or lens as the object is in front of it.
They can be seen by an observer looking into the optical device, but they are not real images that can be captured on a surface.

Examples of Virtual Images:

Virtual images are commonly observed in everyday life, such as when looking into a mirror or through a magnifying glass. Mirrors in dressing rooms and makeup mirrors create virtual images that allow people to see themselves as if they were farther away. Magnifying glasses and corrective lenses also produce virtual images that appear to be located behind the lens.