A virtual image is an image formed when reflected or refracted light rays appear to diverge from a point, but do not actually converge at that point. A common example of a virtual image is the image formed by a plane mirror. When you stand in front of a mirror, your reflection appears to be behind the mirror, but the light rays don’t actually originate from that point.
Elaboration:
Formation:
Virtual images are created when light rays spread out after reflection or refraction and appear to come from a point behind the mirror or lens.
Characteristics:
Virtual images are always upright (erect) and cannot be projected onto a screen.
Plane Mirror Example:
When you look in a plane mirror, your image appears to be behind the mirror, but the light rays are actually diverging after reflection.
Other Examples:
Virtual images are also formed by concave mirrors when the object is placed between the focal point and the mirror, and by convex lenses.