light waves vocab

Light/ Electromagnetic wave

A type of wave that consists of oscillating electric and magnetic fields, traveling through space and carrying energy. Light waves are part of the electromagnetic spectrum and can be visible or invisible to the human eye.

crest

The highest point of a wave, where the amplitude is at its maximum.

trough

The lowest point of a wave, where the amplitude is at its minimum.

wavelength

The distance between successive crests or troughs of a wave, which determines its color in the case of light waves.

amplitude

The maximum extent of a wave's displacement from its rest position, indicating the wave's energy level.

frequency

The number of complete wave cycles that pass a given point in a unit of time, typically measured in Hertz (Hz). It determines the pitch of sound waves and the color of light waves.

visible light

The portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be detected by the human eye, typically ranging from wavelengths of approximately 400 to 700 nanometers.

prism

A transparent optical element that refracts light, dispersing it into its constituent colors.

spectroscope

An instrument used to observe and measure the spectrum of light, allowing for the analysis of its component wavelengths.

medium

Any substance through which light travels, such as air, water, or glass.

Reflection

The bouncing back of light waves when they encounter a surface, allowing us to see images.

Refraction

The bending of light waves as they pass from one medium to another, changing their speed and direction.

Angle of reflection

The angle at which light reflects off a surface, measured from the normal line to the surface.

angle of incidence

The angle at which incoming light waves strike a surface, measured from the normal line to the surface.

law of reflection

the principle that states angle of incidence equals angle of reflection

total internal reflection

The phenomenal occurrence when light is completely reflected