What is a Image? : Definition and Types

What is a Image? : Definition and Types

In the easy language of reflection, we can understand in this way that when we keep any object in front of the mirror, then the exact shape of that object is formed in the mirror. This formed figure is called the 'image' of the object. The item whose image is formed in the mirror can also be called an 'object'.

We can define the image in the following way:-

"If the rays of light coming from a point on the object and after reflection meet at some other point, or appear to be coming from some other point, then this second point is called the image of the first point."

Similarly, every point of the object is formed an image. The image of the total object is made up of these point-images.

There are two types of images:-

1. Real image
2. Virtual image

1. Real Image : If the rays coming from a point-object actually meet at some point after reflection, then this point is called 'real image' of the point-object. This image can be obtained on the screen.
2. Virtual Image: If the rays traveling from a point-object appear to come from some other point after reflection, then this point is called 'virtual image' of the point-object. This image cannot be obtained on the screen but it can be photographed.

Laws of Images Formed by Spherical Mirrors