Step 1: Define Mirror Image Time.
A mirror image time is derived by reversing the clock. The sum of the actual time and its mirror image is always 12:00.
Step 2: Compute Actual Time.
To find the actual time, subtract the mirror time from 12:00:
\[
12:00 - 2:45 = 9:15
\]
When the clock displays 2:45, the corresponding actual time is:
\[
12:00 - 2:45 = 9:15
\]
For mirror image clocks, the calculation for the actual time is:
\[
(11:60 - 2:45) = 9:15
\]
This calculation shows the actual time is 9:15. The standard method for calculating mirror images is \(12:00 - \text{mirror time}\).
Step 3: Verify the Result.
The calculated actual time is \(9:15\), which aligns with option (1).