how does a magnify glass create a virtual image?
This figure shows how it is done:
http://gcserevision101.files.wordpress.com/2009/02/converging-lens-virtual-image.jpg
The object being looked at must be closer than the focal point of the lens
A magnifying glass is a convex lens that is thicker at its center and thinner towards its edges. It can create a virtual image by utilizing the principles of refraction.
When light from an object passes through the magnifying glass, it undergoes refraction, which is the bending of light as it passes from one medium (air) to another medium (glass). The convex shape of the lens causes the light rays to converge towards a single focal point.
For a magnifying glass, the focal point is somewhere beyond the lens, but still fairly close. This is what allows it to create a magnified virtual image. The virtual image is formed when the diverging rays of light appear to originate from a virtual source on the same side of the lens as the object.
To see this for yourself, follow these steps:
1. Hold a magnifying glass between your eye and an object, while ensuring there is enough light to illuminate the object.
2. Position the magnifying glass close to the object and adjust the distance until you see a clear and magnified image.
3. Notice that the image appears enlarged and upright, even though it is not physically there.
In summary, a magnifying glass creates a virtual image by refracting light in a way that causes the rays to converge and appear to originate from a point closer to the observer than the actual object.