The final image produced by a compound microscope is

The correct answer is Option (3) → virtual and inverted

A compound microscope forms its image in two steps. The objective forms a real, inverted, magnified image. The eyepiece works like a simple microscope and forms the final image of this first image.

Option (1) virtual and erect — Incorrect. The final image is virtual. But the first image is already inverted, and the eyepiece keeps that orientation. So the final image is inverted with respect to the object.

Option (2) real and erect — Incorrect. The first image lies at or within the focal plane of the eyepiece. So the eyepiece gives a virtual image of it, and this image is also inverted.

Option (3) virtual and inverted — Correct. The eyepiece gives an enlarged, virtual image of the first image, upright with respect to that image. Since the first image is inverted, the final image is inverted with respect to the original object.

Option (4) real and inverted — Incorrect. Real and inverted describes the first image formed by the objective inside the tube, which serves only as the object for the eyepiece.

NCERT (2026-27):
The Microscope – “… The lens nearest the object, called the objective, forms a real, inverted, magnified image of the object. This serves as the object for the second lens, the eyepiece, which functions essentially like a simple microscope or magnifier, produces the final image, which is enlarged and virtual. … Clearly, the final image is inverted with respect to the original object.”