How do I know if the image is real or virtual?

In summary, the object distance is 15 and the equation m = - (v/u) can be used to determine the magnification of an image. However, it is important to consider the position of the object relative to the focal length in order to determine whether the resulting image is real or virtual. A converging lens will produce a virtual image when the object is outside the focal length, while a magnifying glass typically uses the object between the optical centre and focal length to create a virtual image.
  • #1
izMuted
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Homework Statement


ae476d4f6593d54e328badcc49f9ecd0.png

I know that the object distance is 15 using the equation m = - (v/u)
(+ or - depending on real / virtual) 2 = (+ or -) 30/u
u = 15

However how do I know if the image is real or virtual?

Homework Equations


m = - (v/u)

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Have you tried drawing the diagram, something like this:
u14l5c1.gif


Where would the image have to be to be bigger than the object?

Which side is known as the real side, which side is known as the virtual side and why?
 
  • #3
How do I draw the diagram when I don't know if the object is within / outside the focal length?
Also I used to think that because the image is bigger it must be virtual, however there are some diagrams on the internet where the image is bigger and the object is outside the focal length, like here:
u14l5da6.gif
 
  • #4
"the lens is used as a magnifying glass"- usually when using a magnifying glass is the image virtual or real?
 
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  • #5
As far as I know, in a converging lens, only when the object is between the optical centre and the focal length that the image is virtual (i.e. the setting used in a magnifying glass).
 
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  • #6
Ah yeah the magnifying glass part makes sense - thanks for explaining
 
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1. How can I tell if an image is real or virtual?

To determine if an image is real or virtual, you can look for visual cues such as lighting, shadows, and depth. Real images are typically captured with a camera or created using physical objects, while virtual images are often generated with computer software.

2. Can an image be both real and virtual?

Yes, an image can be a combination of both real and virtual elements. For example, a photograph of a person standing in front of a green screen can have a real person and a virtual background.

3. How do different types of lenses affect the reality of an image?

The type of lens used can greatly impact the reality of an image. Wide angle lenses can distort the image and make it appear less realistic, while telephoto lenses can compress the image and make it appear more realistic. Additionally, different types of lenses can create different levels of depth in an image, affecting its realism.

4. Are there any tools or techniques to determine if an image has been manipulated?

Yes, there are various tools and techniques that can be used to detect image manipulation, such as image forensics software and manual comparison of pixel patterns. However, these methods may not always be 100% accurate and may require expert analysis.

5. Can virtual images be used as evidence in court?

Yes, virtual images can be used as evidence in court, but their authenticity would need to be verified. This may involve providing metadata or using image forensics to prove that the image has not been manipulated or altered in any way.

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