This key facts covers Real vs Virtual Images within Lenses & Images for GCSE Physics. Revise Lenses & Images in Waves for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 15 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 5 of 14 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
📸 Real vs Virtual Images
Real Image:
- Formed where light rays actually meet
- Can be projected onto a screen
- Always inverted (upside down)
- Formed by convex lenses when object is beyond F
Virtual Image:
- Formed where light rays appear to come from (rays diverge and don't actually meet)
- Cannot be projected onto a screen
- Always upright
- Formed by: concave lenses, convex lens when object is closer than F, plane mirrors
Practice questions for Lenses & Images
What does a convex (converging) lens do to parallel rays of light?
Explain the difference between a converging lens and a diverging lens. Include what each type does to parallel rays of light.
Quick recall flashcards
What is focal length?
Distance from lens center to focal point
What is a convex lens?
Converging lens - thicker in middle, brings light rays together