The word “virtual” refers to something that exists in effect but not in actual fact. How does this definition relate to the virtual image you see of yourself in a plane mirror?

Answer:

A virtual image in a plane mirror appears to be located behind the mirror surface where light rays seem to originate. However, because light cannot actually pass through the mirror to that location, no physical image exists there. This relates to the definition because the image exists in effect (you can see it), but not in actual fact (there is no physical light focusing at that spot).