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Difference Between Real and Virtual Image, Major Differences

Difference Between Real and Virtual Image: This concept is must for NEET aspirants aiming for NEET Exam, understand the world of ray optics in simple words and make strong foundation of physics.
authorImagePraveen Kushwah10 Jun, 2025
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Difference Between Real Image and Virtual Image

Difference Between Real and Virtual Image  : Understanding the principles of optics is essential for the National Eligibility and Entrance Test and fascinating for students interested in exploring the secrets of lights. This is especially true for those preparing for the exam.

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 The Difference Between Real and Virtual Image is an interesting feature of optics. In this post, we will go into detail about the concept of real images and virtual images.

What is a Real Image?

Real images are created when actual light beams reflect or refract through a lens or mirror, converging at a designated point. Because of this convergence of light, the image can be projected onto a screen and seen by an observer. Real images are distinguished by their ability to be captured on a screen or photographic surface.

What is a Virtual Image?

On the other hand, a virtual image is formed when the extended rays of light appear to diverge from a point after passing through a lens or reflecting off a mirror. As a result of the light rays' non-convergence, virtual images cannot be projected onto a screen as real images can. Instead, when viewed in reverse, they seem to come from a particular location.

Difference Between Real and Virtual Image

Real images are formed when light rays converge, creating an actual point of focus. They can be captured on a screen. In contrast, virtual images seem to diverge from a point and cannot be projected onto a screen, they are apparent and perceived through the extension of light rays.
Difference Between Real and Virtual Image
Parameter Real Image Virtual Image
Formation Formed by actual convergence of light rays Appears to be formed by the divergence of light rays
Nature Can be captured on a screen or surface Cannot be captured on a screen or surface
Image Characteristics Inverted Upright
Location Formed on the opposite side of the object Appears to be formed on the same side as the object
Size Can be larger or smaller than the object, depending on the object's distance Appears to be the same size as the object
Examples Real images can be seen in a camera or on a projector screen Virtual images in mirrors or lenses, such as the image seen in a convex mirror
The concept of the Difference Between Real and Virtual Image can be more understood with examples, you can see real-life examples to build a better understanding of the topic.

Real Images Examples

Concave Mirror Real Image - A concave mirror, which is curved inward, causes the reflected light to converge and create an actual, inverted image when an object is positioned in front of it. This phenomenon is commonly observed in makeup mirrors.
Converging Lens Real Image - It is possible to produce an actual image with a converging lens (convex lens). For example, an inverted image forms on the opposite side of a converging lens when an object is positioned beyond the focal point.
Projector Real Image - Light from a source is directed onto a screen by a lens in a projector. It is possible to magnify and project the actual image that has formed on the screen for viewing.
 Camera Real Image - Cameras use lenses to form real images on the film or image sensor. The convergence of light rays results in a detailed, inverted image that can be developed or stored digitally.
Concave Lens Real Image - Concave lenses usually produce virtual images, but if you bring an object very close to the lens, you can get a real image on the same side as the object that has been magnified. 

Virtual Images Examples

Convex Mirror Virtual Image - Reflected light appears to diverge when an object is positioned in front of a convex mirror, which is curved outward, creating an upright and virtual image. This is commonly seen in car side mirrors.
Diverging Lens Virtual Image - A virtual image is always produced by a diverging lens (concave lens). For example, the extended rays of a lens that is diverging diverge when an object is positioned in front of it, producing an upright, smaller virtual image.
Plane Mirror Virtual Image - The virtual image formed by a plane mirror is projected at the same distance behind the mirror as the object in front of it. The image is upright and laterally inverted.
Magnifying Glass Virtual Image - Holding a magnifying glass close to an object creates a virtual, magnified image on the opposite side. The image is erect and larger than the actual object.
Eyepiece of a Telescope Virtual Image - An observer can view a virtual image through the eyepiece of a telescope. This virtual image is formed by the convergence of the light rays from the objective lens. 
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Difference Between Real and Virtual Image FAQs

What is the main difference between a real image and a virtual image?

A real image is formed when light rays converge, meeting at a point, and can be captured on a screen. In contrast, a virtual image appears to diverge from a point but cannot be projected onto a screen.

How are real and virtual images formed in optical systems?

Real images are formed when light rays converge after passing through a lens or reflecting off a mirror. Virtual images, on the other hand, seem to come from a point where diverging light rays appear to originate.

Can you see a real image without any additional tools?

Yes, you can see a real image without any tools because it is formed by the actual convergence of light rays. When you place a screen at the location of the real image, it will be visible on the screen.

Why are virtual images not projectable onto a screen?

Virtual images are formed by the apparent divergence of light rays. Since these rays only appear to come from a specific point and don't actually converge, they cannot be projected onto a screen like real images can.

How do mirrors and lenses contribute to the formation of real and virtual images?

Mirrors and lenses play a role in forming both real and virtual images. Concave mirrors and converging lenses can create real images, while convex mirrors and diverging lenses produce virtual images. The key factor is how light rays interact with these optical elements.
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