The difference between a real image and a virtual image is as follows:
Sn | Real image | Virtual image |
1. | A real image can be obtained on a screen. | A virtual image cannot be obtained on a screen. |
2. | It is formed at the point of actual intersection of reflected rays, | It is formed at the point where the reflected rays appear to meet. |
3. | A real image is always inverted. | A virtual image is always erect. |
4. | The real image is always formed in front of the mirror. | The virtual image is always formed behind the mirror. |
Virtual images are formed by the apparent intersection of the reflected rays but they don't intersect each other in real while real image is formed by the actual intersection of the reflected rays.