Question

Explain why a real image can be projected on a screen but a virtual image cannot. Also, give one example of each type of image. [3 marks]

Answer 1

• A real image is formed by real interaction of rays, hence it is possible to project it on a screen. [1 mark]
• On the other hand, a virtual image is drawn by backtracing the path of reflected rays. Since they do not meet in reality, therefore they can not be projected on a screen. [1 mark]

Examples:

• The image formed on a cinema screen is an example of a real image. [0.5 marks]
• The image formed in a plane mirror is a virtual image. [0.5 marks]