Real vs Virtual Images

الصور الحقيقية والصور الوهمية

A real image is formed when light rays actually converge to a point in space and can be projected onto a screen. A virtual image is formed when rays diverge and only appear to intersect when traced backward.

Quick Decode

A real image forms where light rays actually meet and can be captured on a screen placed there. A virtual image forms where the rays only appear to come from when traced backward, as with your reflection in a flat mirror; it cannot be captured directly on a screen at that apparent location.

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References (1)
  1. Keating, M. P. Geometric, Physical, and Visual Optics (2nd ed., Chapter 3) & AAO BCSC Section 3 (Clinical Optics).