Question

What is the difference between an object and its reflection? What causes the difference?

Answer 1

Object	Reflection
An object is the actual thing that is placed in front of a mirror.	A reflection is the image of the object that is seen in the mirror.
The object has its actual shape, size and position.	The reflection usually appears to have the same shape and size as the object.
The left and right sides of the object remain in their actual positions.	In the reflection, the left and right sides appear to be interchanged.
If a person raises the right hand, the person is actually raising the right hand.	In the mirror, the reflection appears to raise the left hand.
Letters and words written on an object can be read normally.	Letters and words seen in a mirror appear reversed from left to right.
The object exists independently and can be touched.	The reflection cannot be touched because it is only an image formed by reflected light.

Cause of the difference:

The difference between an object and its reflection is caused by the reflection of light from the smooth surface of a mirror. When light from an object falls on the mirror, it is reflected back and reaches our eyes. Because of this reflection, the left and right sides appear interchanged. This effect is called lateral inversion.