Cambridge IGCSE Physics · Syllabus 0625 · Waves
Real and virtual images
What is Real and virtual images?
A real image is formed where refracted rays actually converge and cross, so it can be caught on a screen. A virtual image is formed where diverging rays are extrapolated backwards until their extensions appear to meet; no light passes through that point, so a virtual image does not form a visible projection on a screen.
This definition is part of the Waves chapter in Cambridge IGCSE Physics.