Question

The image formed by a concave mirror, when the object is placed between pole and focus :

• A. inverted and real
• B. erect and virtual
• C. equal in size of the object
• D. all of above

Hint:

For a concave mirror, remember these key object positions and image types:
Object at infinity \(\rightarrow\) Image at F, real, inverted, highly diminished.
Object beyond C \(\rightarrow\) Image between F and C, real, inverted, diminished.
Object at C \(\rightarrow\) Image at C, real, inverted, same size.
Object between F and C \(\rightarrow\) Image beyond C, real, inverted, magnified.
Object at F \(\rightarrow\) Image at infinity, real, inverted, highly magnified.
{Object between P and F \(\rightarrow\) Image behind mirror, virtual, erect, magnified.} (This is the case in the question).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: The nature, position, and size of the image formed by a concave mirror depend on the position of the object relative to the mirror's pole (P), focus (F), and center of curvature (C). Case: Object between Pole (P) and Focus (F) of a Concave Mirror When an object is placed between the pole (P) and the principal focus (F) of a concave mirror:
The rays of light from the object, after reflection from the mirror, appear to diverge from a point behind the mirror.
These diverging reflected rays do not actually meet in front of the mirror. Instead, they appear to meet when extended backward.
Nature of the image:
Virtual: Because the reflected rays do not actually intersect but only appear to do so when extended backward. Virtual images cannot be formed on a screen.
Erect: The image is upright relative to the object.
Position of the image: Behind the mirror.
Size of the image: Magnified (larger than the object). This specific case is how a concave mirror is used as a shaving mirror or a makeup mirror, where a magnified, erect image is desired. Analyzing the options:
(1) inverted and real: This occurs when the object is placed beyond C, at C (real, inverted, same size), or between F and C.
(2) erect and virtual: This is correct for an object placed between P and F.
(3) equal in size of the object: This occurs when the object is placed at C (image is real and inverted).
(4) all of above: Incorrect, as only one set of characteristics applies to this specific object position. Therefore, when the object is placed between the pole and focus of a concave mirror, the image formed is erect and virtual (and also magnified, though not asked in this option).