Real and Virtual Images
SNC2D
How does an image form in a
plane mirror?
Step 1: A multitude of light rays from the
object will be incident towards the
mirror.
How does an image form in a
plane mirror?
Step 2: The light will reflect off the mirror
according to the Law of Reflection.
How does an image form in a
plane mirror?
Step 3: The image is where all the
reflected light rays intersect; in this
case, it’s behind the mirror.
How does an image form in a
plane mirror?
i.e. the image is where an observer thinks
the light rays originate.
Virtual Images
An image formed by the intersection of
the extensions of the light rays is called
a virtual image. It cannot be focused
on a screen.
Real Images
An image formed by the intersection of
actual light rays is called a real image.
It can be focused on a screen.
Image Properties
For any image, note the image:
 Size: if the image is larger, smaller, or
the same size as the object
Image Properties
For any image, note the image:
 Size: if the image is larger, smaller, or
the same size as the object
 Attitude: if the image is upright or
inverted (i.e. upside-down)
Image Properties
For any image, note the image:
 Size: if the image is larger, smaller, or
the same size as the object
 Attitude: if the image is upright or
inverted (i.e. upside-down)
 Location: where the image is relative to
the mirror or lens
Image Properties
For any image, note the image:
 Size: if the image is larger, smaller, or
the same size as the object
 Attitude: if the image is upright or
inverted (i.e. upside-down)
 Location: where the image is relative to
the mirror or lens
 Type: real or virtual