Can we get a real image of virtual objects?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the possibility of obtaining a real image from virtual objects, exploring the definitions and implications of virtual objects in optics. Participants provide examples and seek clarification on the nature of virtual images and their relationship to real images in various contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asserts that rays do not pass through virtual objects, questioning how a real image can be formed from them.
  • Another participant suggests that every sharply visible object forms a real image on the retina, prompting a clarification of what is meant by "virtual objects."
  • A participant mentions holograms as examples of virtual objects, raising questions about their classification as real images.
  • Discussion includes the derivation of lens equations, where virtual images are used as virtual objects for further calculations, leading to the formation of real images.
  • One participant claims that looking in a mirror provides a real image of a virtual object, suggesting practical examples of the concept.
  • Concerns are raised about the classification of holograms, with some participants arguing that certain types of holograms can create real images that appear three-dimensional.
  • A later reply emphasizes the importance of understanding the terminology used in discussing virtual objects and their implications in optics.
  • An example is provided where incoming rays converge towards a virtual object, leading to a real image after refraction through a lens.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the definitions and implications of virtual objects and their ability to form real images. There is no consensus on the classification of holograms or the conditions under which real images can be derived from virtual objects.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the ambiguity in the definitions of virtual objects and real images, as well as the dependence on specific contexts such as lens optics and holography. The discussion remains open-ended with unresolved questions regarding terminology and conceptual understanding.

navneet9431
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Is it possible to get a real image of virtual objects, If so please explain with examples and some real life situations?

Look at my assertion "rays will not pass through virtual objects so how it can form real image", is this possible, please help.
 
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navneet9431 said:
Is it possible to get a real image of virtual objects,
What do you mean by "virtual objects" exactly? Every object that you can see sharply, forms a real image on your retina.
 
navneet9431 said:
Is it possible to get a real image of virtual objects, If so please explain with examples and some real life situations?

Look at my assertion "rays will not pass through virtual objects so how it can form real image", is this possible, please help.

Isn't a hologram a "virtual object"?

Zz.
 
A rainbow?

Or do you mean this?
https://www.quora.com/What-are-virtual-objects-in-optics said:
We use the term virtual object while deriving the equation of lens. A lens has two surface. while deriving the equation. In the first part of derivation a virtual image(a image that cannot be projected on a screen) is formed by the first surface. The object of this lens surface is real.

In the second part of derivation considering the second lens surface, the virtual image of the first lens surface is taken as a Virtual object for second surface and we solve the derivation. This virtual object create a real image which we can see. We cannotdirectly observe the virtual object
 
navneet9431 said:
Is it possible to get a real image of virtual objects, If so please explain with examples and some real life situations?
Yes. Look in a mirror. What you see is a real image formed on your retina of a virtual object in the mirror
 
ZapperZ said:
Isn't a hologram a "virtual object"?

Zz.
I'm not sure that's true for all holograms. I believe there are projection holograms where the light forms a real image which appears three dimensional and where the light passes through the location of the image. I would class that as a real image. But here we are again worrying about what to call something instead of discussing how something works.
 
sophiecentaur said:
I'm not sure that's true for all holograms. I believe there are projection holograms where the light forms a real image which appears three dimensional and where the light passes through the location of the image. I would class that as a real image. But here we are again worrying about what to call something instead of discussing how something works.

I was being facetious. Often time, people do not know what they mean by "virtual object". In a hologram, the object itself is not that, merely a "replay" of the image that has been imprinted.

Both Dale and anorlunda have replied to the issue of virtual image in the "optics" sense.

Zz.
 
Here's an example. The incoming rays from the left converge towards a virtual object at the right of the lens, but never actually pass through it, except for the single ray through the center of the lens. After refraction, the outgoing rays converge towards a real image and actually pass through it.

virtualobject.gif
 

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