Final answer:
An enlarged, virtual image forms in a concave mirror when the object is placed within the focal point of the mirror. The image formed is upright and larger than the object. When the object is beyond the focal point, the image becomes real and inverted.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a concave mirror is used, an enlarged, virtual image forms when the object is placed inside the focal point of the mirror. The image appears enlarged and upright as compared to the object. This is because the rays diverge upon reflection and when extended backward, they seem to converge at a point behind the mirror, forming a virtual image.
To illustrate, consider a person using a makeup mirror, which is a common use of a concave mirror. The person's face (the object) is within the focal point of the mirror. The rays of light reflected from the face diverge upon striking the mirror. When these reflected rays are extended backward, they appear to converge at a point behind the mirror. This point is where the enlarged, virtual image of the person's face forms, allowing the person to see an enlarged image of their face, which aids in applying makeup accurately.
An important note to remember about virtual images produced by a concave mirror is that they are upright and larger than the object only when the object is within the focal point. When the object is placed beyond the focal point of the mirror, the image becomes real and inverted.
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