Light Waves quiz Key terms

Light / Electromagnetic Wave

A type of wave that is part of the electromagnetic spectrum, characterized by oscillating electric and magnetic fields, and capable of traveling through a vacuum. Light waves are responsible for visible illumination and carry energy.

Crest

The highest point of a wave, representing the maximum displacement of the wave from its equilibrium position.

Though

the lowest part of a wave

Wavelength

The distance between successive crests of a wave, indicating the length of one complete wave cycle. Wavelength is inversely related to frequency and determines the color of visible light.

Amplitude

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

Frequency

The number of wave cycles that pass a given point per unit time, typically measured in hertz (Hz). Frequency is inversely related to wavelength and is a key factor in determining the properties of light.

Visible light

The portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be detected by the human eye, typically ranging from about 380 to 750 nanometers in wavelength. It includes all colors that are visible, such as red, yellow green blue, violet and purple.

Prism

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

Spectroscope

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

Medium

A substance through which light travels, such as air, water, or glass, affecting its speed and direction.

Reflection

The bouncing back of light waves when they encounter a reflective surface, such as a mirror.

Refraction

The bending or light waves as they pass from one medium to another changing speed and direction

angle of reflection

The angle formed between the reflected light ray and normal to the surface at the point of reflection, equal to the angle of incidence

Angle of Incidence

The angle formed between the incident light ray and the normal to the surface at the point of incidence, equal to the angle of reflection

law of reflection

The principle stating that the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection which governs how light reflects all surfaces

Total Internal Reflection

The phenomenon that occurs when a light ray traveling through a medium hits the boundary or a less dense medium at an angle greater than the critical angle causing all the light to be reflected into the denser medium