List four properties of the image formed by a plane mirror.
List four properties of the image formed by a plane mirror.
Official answer
The four properties of the image formed by a plane mirror are:
- The image is always virtual and erect.
- The size of the image is equal to that of the object.
- The image is formed as far behind the mirror as the object is in front of it.
- The image is laterally inverted.
Marking scheme
- 1.0.5 marks for each correct property listed (up to 4 properties). Total = 2 marks.
Hint
Recall how you see yourself in a dressing mirror every morning. Think about size, orientation, distance, and left-right reversal.
Quick oral answer
The image formed by a plane mirror is virtual, erect, of the same size as the object, laterally inverted, and located at the same distance behind the mirror as the object is in front of it.
Common mistakes
- 1.Confusing lateral inversion with vertical inversion.
- 2.Stating that the image is real instead of virtual.
Analysis and explanation
According to the NCERT text, a plane mirror forms an image that cannot be obtained on a screen (virtual) and is upright (erect). The distance of the object from the mirror is equal to the distance of the image behind the mirror. The left side of the object appears as the right side of the image (lateral inversion), and the size remains identical.
Interesting facts
In a plane mirror, light rays do not actually meet behind the mirror; our brain projects the diverging rays backward, creating the illusion of a virtual image.
Question details
Q9 of 41 questions
- Board
- CBSE
- Class
- Class 10
- Subject
- Science
- Year
- 2012
- Section
- Section A
- Marks
- 2
- Type
- Short Answer
- Chapter
- Light — Reflection and Refraction
- Topic
- Reflection of Light
- Bloom's level
- Remembering
- Syllabus topic
- Reflection of light by plane mirror
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Frequently asked questions
How many marks does this question carry in CBSE Class 10 Science 2012?
This question carries 2 marks in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2012 examination.
Which chapter does this question come from in Science?
This question is from the chapter "Light — Reflection and Refraction" in the CBSE Class 10 Science syllabus.
What topic does this question cover in Science?
This question covers the topic "Reflection of Light" from CBSE Class 10 Science.
What type of question is this in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2012 paper?
This is a Short Answer question from Section A in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2012 paper.