A virtual image, we always say, cannot be caught on a screen. Yet when we ‘see’ a virtual image, we are obviously bringing it on to the ‘screen’ i.e., retina of our eye. Is there a contradiction? [3 MARKS]

Open in App

Solution

Each point: 1 Mark

1. When the reflected or refracted rays are divergent, the image is virtual. The divergent rays can be converged on to a screen with the help of suitable converging lens.
2. The convex lens of eyes performs precisely this function. In this case, the ‘virtual image’ serves as the ‘virtual object’, for the lens to produce a real image.
3. It may be noted here that the screen is located at the position of the virtual image. There is no contradiction.

Suggest Corrections

Similar questions

Q. Answer the following questions:

(a) You have learnt that plane and convex mirrors produce virtual images of objects. Can they produce real images under some circumstances? Explain.

(b) A virtual image, we always say, cannot be caught on a screen. Yet when we see a virtual image, we are obviously bringing it on to the screen (i.e., the retina) of our eye. Is there a contradiction?

(c) A diver under water, looks obliquely at a fisherman standing on the bank of a lake. Would the fisherman look taller or shorter to the diver than what he actually is?

(d) Does the apparent depth of a tank of water change if viewed obliquely? If so, does the apparent depth increase or decrease?

(e) The refractive index of diamond is much greater than that of ordinary glass. Is this fact of some use to a diamond cutter?

Q. Virtual image can be caught on a screen.

Q. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?

I. An image that can be obtained on a screen is called a virtual image.
II. A convex lens always forms a virtual image.
III. A concave lens always forms a virtual image.

Mark ‘T’ if the statement is true and ‘F’ if it is false:

(a) We can obtain an enlarged and erect image by a convex mirror. (T/F)

(b) A concave lens always forms a virtual image. (T/F)

(d) A real image cannot be obtained on a screen. (T/F)

(e) A concave mirror always forms a real image. (T/F)

Join BYJU'S Learning Program