Real Image vs. Virtual Image: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
A real image is formed by converging light rays and can be projected onto a screen, whereas a virtual image is formed by diverging rays and cannot be projected.
Key Differences
Real images are produced when light rays converge at a point after reflection or refraction, resulting in an image that can be displayed on a screen. In contrast, virtual images occur when light rays diverge, creating an image that appears to be behind a mirror or lens and cannot be projected onto a screen.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Real images are inverted and can be captured on a physical medium like a screen or film, making them tangible in a sense. On the other hand, virtual images are upright and cannot be projected onto any surface, existing only as perceived by the observer.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Real images are commonly formed in devices like cameras and telescopes, where the focus is on capturing or observing distant objects. Virtual images, however, are typically seen in mirrors and magnifying glasses, where the goal is to perceive an enhanced or reflected view.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Real images vary in size, often being either larger or smaller than the objects they represent, depending on the optical setup. Virtual images usually appear to be the same size or larger than the actual objects, enhancing detail and visibility.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Real images play a crucial role in photography, cinema, and scientific imaging, where capturing accurate representations of reality is essential. Virtual images are central to applications like virtual reality, augmented reality, and certain types of optical illusions, where the perception of reality is manipulated for various purposes.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Formation Mechanism
Formed by converging light rays
Formed by diverging light rays
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Dec 09, 2023
Projectability
Can be projected onto a screen
Cannot be projected onto a screen
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Dec 09, 2023
Visibility
Can be captured on a physical medium
Only visible to the observer
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Dec 09, 2023
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Real Image and Virtual Image Definitions
Real Image
A real image is an optical image that is formed where rays of light actually meet.
The real image of the landscape appeared on the photographer's film, capturing the scene's beauty.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
Virtual Image
A virtual image is a non-capturable image formed by diverging light rays.
The virtual image in the magnifying glass enlarged the text, making it easier to read.
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Dec 01, 2023
Real Image
A real image is an inverted representation of an object formed by optical systems.
The telescope created a real image of the distant star, inverted and clear.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
Virtual Image
A virtual image is an optical illusion created by light rays that do not actually meet.
In the optical experiment, a virtual image of the candle flame appeared to float in the air.
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Dec 01, 2023
Real Image
A real image is a physical manifestation of light rays converging at a point.
In a dark room, a real image of the tree outside was projected onto the wall through a pinhole camera.
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Dec 01, 2023
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Virtual Image
A virtual image is an image formed by rays that appear to come from an image but don't actually do so.
The convex mirror at the store created a virtual image, showing a wider view of the aisle.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
Real Image
A real image is a reproduction of an object via light that can be formed on a screen.
The real image formed by a camera lens is captured on the film inside.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
Virtual Image
A virtual image is the perceivable reproduction of an object formed by refracted or reflected light.
The virtual image of the object in the water appeared distorted due to the refraction of light.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
Real Image
A real image refers to an image that can be seen on a surface after light rays intersect.
The projector displayed a real image of the presentation on the screen.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
Virtual Image
A virtual image is an apparent image formed where light rays only seem to diverge.
When looking in the flat mirror, a virtual image of my face appeared, upright and reversed.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is a real image?
A real image is formed when light rays converge to form a visible reproduction of an object on a surface.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
What devices commonly produce real images?
Cameras, projectors, and telescopes commonly produce real images.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Can a real image be projected?
Yes, a real image can be projected onto a screen or another surface.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Is a virtual image always upright?
Yes, a virtual image is generally upright in relation to the object.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
What is a virtual image?
A virtual image is formed by diverging light rays and appears to be behind a reflective surface, like a mirror.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Can a virtual image be captured on film or a screen?
No, a virtual image cannot be captured directly on a screen or film.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Can real images vary in size?
Yes, real images can be larger, smaller, or the same size as the object, depending on the optics.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Is a real image always inverted?
Typically, a real image is inverted, but its orientation can depend on the optical setup.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
What devices commonly produce virtual images?
Mirrors and magnifying glasses commonly produce virtual images.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Do real images require a physical medium to be seen?
Yes, real images need a physical medium like a screen or film to be visible.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Are virtual images used in technology?
Yes, virtual images are used in technologies like virtual reality and augmented reality.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
What role do virtual images play in optical illusions?
Virtual images are key in creating optical illusions, as they can appear in unexpected places or in altered forms.
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Dec 09, 2023
Are virtual images dependent on the observer's position?
Yes, the appearance of a virtual image can change depending on the observer's viewpoint.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Are virtual images typically the same size as the object?
Virtual images can be the same size or appear larger than the object.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Can real images be magnified?
Yes, real images can be magnified using lenses or other optical devices.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
What is an example of a real image in everyday life?
A photograph taken by a camera is an example of a real image.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
What is an example of a virtual image in everyday life?
Your reflection in a flat bathroom mirror is a virtual image.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
How do lenses affect the formation of real images?
Lenses bend (refract) light rays to converge at a point, forming a real image.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
How does reflection contribute to virtual images?
Reflection, like in a mirror, causes light rays to diverge, creating a virtual image.
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Dec 09, 2023
Can real images be used in scientific research?
Yes, real images are essential in scientific research for capturing accurate visual data.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Shumaila Saeed
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