The correct option is Virtual and erect.
Explanation
A plane mirror is a flat reflective surface. The image formation occurs due to the reflection of light rays. The nature of the image is determined by the behavior of light rays after reflection-specifically, whether they actually converge or appear to diverge from a point.
Detailed Analysis
The characteristics of an image formed by a plane mirror are as follows:
- Virtual: When light rays from an object strike a plane mirror, they reflect and diverge. These reflected rays do not meet in real space. However, when extended backward behind the mirror, they appear to intersect at a specific point. Since the rays do not physically converge, the image cannot be projected onto a screen. Such an image is termed "virtual."
- Erect: The image formed is upright, meaning it has the same vertical orientation as the object. It is not inverted vertically.
- Laterally Inverted: While the image is erect, it undergoes lateral inversion, meaning the left side of the object appears as the right side of the image, and vice versa.
- Size and Distance: The image is of the same size as the object and is formed at the same distance behind the mirror as the object is in front of it.
Therefore, the image formed by a plane mirror is always virtual and erect.
Key Takeaway: Images formed by plane mirrors are always virtual (cannot be caught on a screen), erect (upright), laterally inverted, and of the same size as the object.