Virtual and Erect
Explanation
The formation of images by a plane mirror is governed by the laws of reflection. The nature of the image is determined by the behavior of light rays after they reflect off the mirror surface.
- Virtual Image: When light rays from an object strike a plane mirror, they reflect and diverge. These reflected rays do not actually intersect in physical space. Instead, they appear to originate from a point behind the mirror when extended backward. Since the rays do not physically meet, the image cannot be captured on a screen. Such an image is termed virtual.
- Erect Image: The image formed maintains the same vertical orientation as the object; the top of the object appears at the top of the image, and the bottom appears at the bottom. This characteristic is known as being erect (upright).
Consequently, the image formed by a plane mirror is always virtual and erect. It is distinct from real images, which are formed by converging rays and can be projected onto a screen.
Key Takeaway: A plane mirror always forms an image that is virtual, erect, laterally inverted, and of the same size as the object.