In a compound microscope, the intermediate image is:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Real, inverted and magnified
In a compound microscope the object is placed just beyond the focal length of the objective, which therefore forms a real, inverted and magnified image. This intermediate image lies within the focal length of the eyepiece, which acts as a simple magnifier and forms the final virtual, magnified image.
Why the other options are incorrect
Option (1) Virtual, erect and magnified — Incorrect. Virtual, erect and magnified describes the image formed by the eyepiece of the intermediate image, not the intermediate image itself (the final image is also inverted with respect to the object).
Option (2) Real, erect and diminished — Incorrect. A real image formed by a single convex lens is always inverted; also the objective magnifies.
Option (4) Virtual, erect and diminished — Incorrect. The intermediate image is formed by the objective from an object outside its focus, so it is real, not virtual.
NCERT (2026-27):
The Microscope – “… This is known as a compound microscope. A schematic diagram of a compound microscope is shown in Fig. 9.24. 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.”