a virtual image cannot be focused on screen. yet we can see the virtual image we obviously bring it to our screen that is our retina of our eyes. is this a contradiction?

Open in App

Solution

Good observation!
This is not a contradiction in fact. Even in the formation of a virtual image some light is reflected. This reflected light is in fact forming a real image on our retina. It appears to the eye that the rays are coming from a real object but in fact they are not actually forming an image on a screen.

Suggest Corrections

Similar questions

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]

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?

How do we see things upright if the image formed on retina in our eye is an inverted one.

Q. Virtual image can be caught on a screen.

Join BYJU'S Learning Program