what is the difference between a virtual and a real image?

Question

this is my science question and it is regarding refraction of light

in this what is a real and a virtual image
one main difference

Answer 1

A real image can be captured on a screen whereas a virtual one cannot. A mirror image is an example of a virtual one.

Answer 2

a real point image is the point source of light, while the virtual point image is the extended source of light reflected by the real point image. A real point image can be defined as a nonluminous object ; it can be reflected on a surface causing the virtual point image. The real image can always be there if you move the object it was being reflected on without disturbing its original position. While moving the object it was being reflected to can cause disruption in the original position of the virtual image.

Answer 3

A 'Real' image is the one you see of any object.

'Virtual' means 'as seen' so if, for example you looked in a mirror at your face, you would see a 'virtual' image, ie one that 'appears' to be there but is not real. Try putting your hand behind the mirror and touching it. You can't because it isn't really there.

Sadly people misuse the word 'virtual' to mean 'almost' like 'He had virtually reached the finishing line when he was passed by another runner.'

Answer 4

Real is a copy of reality Virtual is a created image ( Real and Virtual are defined this way for the purpose of image source) BUT

once any real image is reproduced ( photo ) it is virtual as far as light refraction since it is not multidimensional ( even 3D is a trick it is in reality 2D or multiple 2D images ) so only reality is real in this case - but holograms have the potential to eventually be 'real' as far as light refraction is concerned since they are true 3D images