A plane mirror reflects a beam of light to form a real image, The incident beam should be

Options

A. parallel
B. convergent
C. divergent
D. not possible

Explanation

To solve the question about a plane mirror reflecting a beam of light to form a real image, we need to analyze the conditions under which a real image can be formed by a plane mirror.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Image Formation by Mirrors**:
- A plane mirror always forms a virtual image. This is because the light rays reflected from the mirror appear to diverge from a point behind the mirror, which is not a real point where light converges.

2. **Defining Real and Virtual Images**:
- A real image is formed when light rays converge at a point after reflection or refraction. A virtual image, on the other hand, is formed when light rays appear to diverge from a point.

3. **Analyzing the Incident Beam**:
- For a plane mirror to reflect light and form a real image, the incident rays must converge before they hit the mirror. This means that the light rays must be directed towards a point in front of the mirror.

4. **Conclusion on the Type of Incident Beam**:
- Therefore, the incident beam should be **convergent**. This means that the light rays are coming together at a point before reflecting off the mirror.

5. **Final Answer**:
- The incident beam should be convergent for a plane mirror to reflect it and form a real image.